RUUD GULLIT will begin his managerial career in front of the live Sky Sports cameras when he takes his Chelsea side to play Southampton at The Dell on Sunday, August 18th.

The Dutchman, who yesterday announced that the French international defender Frank Leboeuf has joined Chelsea in a £2.5 million deal, took over the Stamford Bridge hot seat from England coach in waiting Glenn Hoddle last month.

But he learned yesterday that he will have to wait an extra 24 hours before beginning his reign in earnest after Sky announced the first 36 matches of their live package for the forthcoming season.