Breaking News: Carlo Ancelotti had no say in my exit – Ray Wilkins
Former Chelsea assistant manager has broken his silence and has given his backing to current Chelsea boss to get his former club's season back on track.
Wilkins' departure has coincided with the slump in form for Chelsea and critics have been quick to point out this coincidence.
Ray Wilkins believes that Carlo Ancelotti is the man who will turn it around for Chelsea and should be backed by fans and the owner. The next three games are crucial for Chelsea before the end of the year. A decent run will take the pressure of the Italian
and could well put Chelsea back to the top.
"When you're used to winning all the time it's a kick up the backside when it doesn't all go your way," said Wilkins. "These things can happen and that's what makes our game the best in the world. The results will take care of themselves. Yes they have lost
a lot of points in that period (since his departure) but they are not massively away from Manchester United or Arsenal.”
Many have been pointing out to Wilkins' departure as the reason behind the current Chelsea slump, and some even suggested that Carlo Ancelotti wanted more power and that is why he let go Wilkins.
However, Wilkins has put the record straight by saying that it all was a coincidence and he knows what the quality of the dressing room is. He was never the sole reason why Chelsea were doing so well and likewise his departure is not the reason behind their
dismal run of form.
Wilkins pointed out the injury crisis Chelsea have found themselves in. Frank Lampard, who normally scores 20 goals a season, has missed most of this campaign. Then the likes of Michael Essien and John Terry have hardly featured regularly for Chelsea this
season.
Any team would find it hard to cope without their two most influential central midfielders. They are the powerhouse of the Chelsea team and they have clearly found it hard to find creativity from elsewhere.
Ray Wilkins also described Carlo Ancelotti as a ‘very good friend’ and cleared the air by saying that he had no hand in his departure. It was purely a decision made by the men at the top.
"There was no real explanation as to why I've been dismissed, only that Roman wanted some change," said Wilkins. "When you've spent £750-800m you're entitled to make that change when you wish to make it and unfortunately I was the guy that went.
"But that's his prerogative, he made that decision and I wish them the best of luck.
"It came as a bit of a bolt out of the blue but never be surprised by what happens in football because these things do rear their ugly head now and then. Unfortunately I was on the receiving end of it. I'm OK now, I'm over it and just cracking on."
Chelsea will now take on Tottenham in this weekend’s clash and they have the backing of their former assistant manager. He believes a win will put them in great stead for a tough run of games before the end of the year.
Chelsea take on Manchester United at Stamford Bridge next weekend and then make a short trip across London to play Arsenal the weekend after.
If the results of these matches do not go according to plan, then Carlo Ancelotti could face a similar fate to that of his assistant. These are tough times for Chelsea and the pressure is mounting on the Italian. Who could have bet on Ancelotti getting the
sack before the end of the year, especially after the remarkable start they made to the season.
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