Steve Clarke severs long link with Chelsea

Steve Clarke resigned as Chelsea’s assistant first-team coach yesterday evening to pave the way for a move to West Ham United, where he will work in a similar capacity under Gianfranco Zola, the new manager.

The former Scotland defender has agreed a three-year contract at Upton Park and his appointment will be announced in the next few days, once the club have agreed a severance package with Chelsea. The West London club are demanding £1.2 million in compensation because Clarke has two years left to run on his contract.

In a statement released this morning, Chelsea said they had not accepted Clarke's resignation and insisted talks were ongoing.

"Chelsea can confirm that West Ham have made an approach with regards to talking to Steve Clarke," it read. "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."