Ten Cate sacked as Chelsea coach

Henk ten Cate has been sacked as assistant first team coach of Chelsea, the London club confirmed this evening.

The Blues made the announcement on their website, revealing the decision was reached following a meeting this morning.

The former Ajax manager joined the Blues as Avram Grant's right-hand man last season and brought with him a reputation as a disciplinarian from his time as Frank Rijkaard's assistant at Barcelona.

However, after Grant was sacked last week despite reaching the Champions League final, the club have decided to let the Dutchman follow him out of the exit door.

"Chelsea Football Club can confirm that it terminated Henk Ten Cate's contract today," a statement on chelseafc.com read.

"As a result of the team management changes at Chelsea FC, and in the light of any forthcoming appointment, it was clear this was the correct decision for all parties.

"Everybody at Chelsea would like to thank Henk for his contribution since coming to the club last year."

As speculation over who will replace Grant continues, Ten Cate's exit seems to leave Rijkaard as a firm outsider to get the job.