CHELSEA has been accused of 'clumsy loving' after ousting Maurico Pochettino two weeks before leading a World XI at Stamford Bridge.
Fans shocked by Poch's departure rounded out the “crazy” awkward timing ahead of Soccer Aid against FRANK LAMPARDEngland's XI.
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It means two bosses unceremoniously departed Stamford Bridge will clash at the annual charity match for Unicef on June 9.
Lampard's colleague Chelsea legend Eden Hazard has arrived Pochettino's team.
And supporters were stunned by the Argentine's departure so close to what should be a fun summer evening at the Bridge.
One fan wrote: “I literally said we couldn't fire him for that, it would be so awkward. Turns out we like awkward.”
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Other incredulous responses included: “No way”… “lol”… “so awkward”… and “crazy world.”
It was too labeled as the “last dagger” by a Chelsea supporter..
Lampard and ex-Real Madrid playmaker Hazard will make his Soccer Aid debut alongside Ashes icon Stuart Broad, Gladiators' Diamond, Bobby Brazier, Sam Thompson and Erin Doherty.
Returning sports stars include Usain Bolt, Harry Redknapp, Jesus Perez, Jill Scott, Karen Carney, Jermain Defoe, Mo Farah, David James, Tommy Fury, Gary Cahill, David Seaman, Roberto Carlos, Joe Cole and Jack Wilshere.
Who could be the next Chelsea manager?
HERE are the seven names in the running to replace Mauricio Pochettino following his shock departure from Chelsea.
Roberto De Zerbi
The Italian left Brighton at the end of the season after a year and a half in charge. He was linked with a host of top jobs earlier in the season, but a difficult run of results saw him fall out of contention for the likes of Liverpool. De Zerbi's attacking, front-foot style would be popular at Stamford Bridge.
Kieran McKenna
The former Manchester United assistant has guided Ipswich to successive promotions from League One to the Premier League. That has sent his stock through the roof and he may be tempted to spring for a big job.
Enzo Maresca
Maresca was Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City and has worked wonders at Leicester, returning the Foxes to the Premier League at the first attempt. Appointing a Pep disciple has turned Arsenal into title contenders, so it could work for Chelsea too.
Hansi Flick
Flick was one of the most sought-after football managers after winning the Champions League with Bayern Munich. But it all went wrong in his next role, which saw him become the first manager ever sacked by Germany. Now he is ready to return and could be a smart move for the Blues
Sebastian Hoeness
Chelsea fans may not have heard of him, but Hoeness is Germany's next big thing. Hoeness transformed Stuttgart from relegation candidates to the second-best team in the Bundesliga, finishing above Bayern Munich. Only the invincible Bayer Leverkusen stood in the way of a miracle.
Michael
Michel Sanchez has done wonders for little Girona in Spain. The minnows were right in the LaLiga title race at Christmas before seeing Real Madrid shoot into the distance. But they have pipped illustrious Catalan neighbors Barcelona all the way to second place and are assured of a place in the Champions League. Reports in Spain say this has caught Chelsea's attention.
Jose Mourinho
Mourinho is still adored by fans at Stamford Bridge, who have never warmed to former Spurs boss Pochettino, and is said to be a popular choice. Winner of three Premier League games with the Blues in two topsy-turvy spells, could he be the man to take Chelsea back to the top?
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Among other “names” taking part are Robbie Williams, Roman Kemp, Martin Compston, Lee Mack, Steven Bartlett, Paddy McGuinness, Alex Brooker, Tom Grennan and Maisie Adam.
Dermot O'Leary and Alex Scott will host ITV's coverage.
O'Leary said: “We are one big team at Soccer Aid for UNICEF, united by a purpose to help protect the game for children around the world.
By purchasing a ticket to this year's star-studded competition, children can have the chance to grow up happy and healthy.
“Whoever you support, I'm sure it will be an absolutely fantastic night at Stamford Bridge.”
Pochettino's Chelsea record
MAURICIO POCHETTINO had just started to turn Chelsea around.
Their impressive late-season form saw the Blues leapfrog Manchester United and Newcastle to finish sixth in the Premier League and earn a place in the Europa League.
But that was not enough to keep him in work, as it was announced on Tuesday evening that the Argentinian had left.
Here they all are PochettinoStamford Bridge Stats:
Premier League – 6e
FA Cup – Semi-finals (lost to Man City)
Carabao cup – Runners-up (lost to Liverpool)
Total record:
Play 51
Win 26
Draws 11
Defeats 14
Goals for 103
Goals against 74