Chelsea have confirmed that assistant manager Steve Clarke has handed in his resignation.
It is understood Clarke – who has been at Chelsea for more than 20 years as player and coach – wants to team up with his former Stamford Bridge team-mate Gianfranco Zola, who was yesterday confirmed as West Ham’s new manager.
A Chelsea spokesman said: “We have not given permission to talk to him. Steve Clarke after discussions yesterday tendered his resignation. Talks will continue.”