SoccerNews.com

Luiz Felipe Scolari faces the first crisis of his Chelsea reign after long-serving club servant Steve Clarke resigned as one of his coaches on Friday.

Clarke, who who has been at Chelsea for over 20 years as player and coach, wants to team up with his former Stamford Bridge team-mate Gianfranco Zola, who was appointed as West Ham’s new manager on Thursday.

Chelsea are however refusing to release the former Scotland defender.

A statement from the club said: “Chelsea can confirm that West Ham have made an approach with regards to talking to Steve Clarke.

“They have not been given permission to talk to him. Steve Clarke has tendered his resignation as assistant first team coach. We have not accepted his resignation. Talks are continuing.”

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