Scolari Cut: Who's Next in the Fold?

While the sporting world reels from a 'shock' Chelsea coaching exit, it must be said that the general consensus among the club's fans has been one of indifference towards the decision to sack Luis Felipe Scolari.

As commented by this reporter upon his arrival, Scolari came into the English game as an unpredictable commodity. With splashes of effective tactics on the pitch and flashes of fisticuffs off it, the Premier league did not know what to expect. 

All of this changed, however. Once the results began to form a rather ugly recurring pattern, the outcome became far from uncertain. Blame will supposedly be squared at his apparent inability to motivate world class players and extract wins when expected. 

Others will argue that Scolari's departure is symptomatic of deeper problems at Stamford Bridge. With a dwindling transfer budget, a squad packed with out of form talismen and a serious lack of tolerance or direction throughout club ranks, it is no wonder the supporters are frustrated at yet another false dawn. During the bitterly cold stalemate against Hull, fans howled 'you don't know what you're doing'. This would have also given Roman Abramovic and Peter Kenyon a rather resonant chill down their spines.

So who will follow the 'Brazil Nut'? In this writer's opinion, all bets are off. CV's stuffed with World Cup victories do not seem to assure Chelsea success on the pitch.

The real question emerging is whether managing Chelsea is appealing enough anymore to offset the career risk. Take Messrs Grant, Ten Cate and Ranieri. Their notoriety has undoubtedly been boosted despite being jilted by the Blues. But the pressure to achieve what Wenger, Ferguson (and more importantly Benitez) have without time, money or faith from the fans teeters on inhuman. Is the task unreasonable? Will Chelsea ever find anyone to rekindle the fire? Where is the spark?

In the meantime, any Chelsea fans in need of advice on how to follow a big club in the eternal throws of revolution can simply ask the nearest Newcastle supporter.