Mourinho

THE MOST controversial and enigmatic sideline figure in British football has been banished from the Bridge!

But the debate rages on as to whether he was pushed or jumped.

Jose Mourinho was a lightning rod for controversy throughout his tenure at the Blues; but matched that magnetic appeal with results - attracting the most impressive haul of silverware in Chelsea's history.

Premiership titles in 2004/05 and 2005/06, a double League Cup win and the FA Cup victory over Manchester United last season; Mourinho was also voted Premier League Manager of the Year twice and made their Stamford Bridge home a fortress, with an incredible run of 66 unbeaten.

Crossed the bridge

But shocking though it was to hear that Jose had crossed the bridge, it can hardly be seen as a surprise - as it was his failure to conquer Europe and perhaps too much passion that marooned Mourinho in the eyes of Russian owner Roman Abramovich.

Signing

Ostensibly brought in to Chelsea to win the Champions League, Abramovich believed Andriy Schevchenko was signed for that very same reason - ironically it was that signing which highlighted the rift within the team's management.

The 31-year-old forward, a £30.1 million purchase from AC Milan and a close personal friend of the owner - had come under fire for scoring only 14 goals in 52 Blues appearances - which led him to be marginalised by Mourinho.

With Blues fans looking for the ogre under the bridge, fingers have begun to point in the direction of Abramovich and Israeli Avram Grant.

But tell me this; if you doled out £200 million over three seasons to a man that had won the competition without financial backing before with Porto, wouldn't you expect some continental control?

As for Grant, having to follow up the accomplishments of Mourinho is daunting enough, particularly with controversy looming over his qualifications to manage in the BPL. I don't imagine he'll still be at the helm by season's end. Meanwhile, rumours abound as to where Mourinho will end up. He has even hinted at a return to the premiership before long. All I know is, wherever it is will get a little 'Mour' special!

Contact Joel at jcrosskill@sportsmax.tv