Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay has claimed that the club are likely to announce a permanent manager within the next fortnight.

Roberto Di Matteo, who replaced Andre Villas-Boas on an interim basis in February, is favourite to take the job on a full-time contract after leading the Blues to FA Cup and Champions League glory this season.

"[A new manager could be appointed at] any time over the next couple of weeks and certainly by the time we go on tour," said Gourlay. "The players report back on July 4 or 5 and in an ideal world you want the coach in position by then."

Despite Di Matteo's success since taking over at Stamford Bridge, reports have claimed that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich will dismiss the former West Bromwich Albion manager.

Written by
Danielle Joynson