Wilkins ends Chelsea dispute

Ray Wilkins has settled his contract dispute with Chelsea following his abrupt departure from the Stamford Bridge club

Carlo Ancelotti's former assistant made an unexpected exit from his post earlier this month after the Premier League champions elected not to renew his contract, which was due to expire at the end of the season.

The Blues legend later confirmed he was seeking legal advice over the situation over what he described as an "undoubtedly unfair dismissal".

But following discussions between the parties, the League Managers Association revealed that the matter had now been settled.

A statement on the LMA website read: "The League Managers Association (LMA) can confirm that Ray Wilkins MBE and Chelsea Football Club have amicably resolved all outstanding matters in relation to his recent departure from the club on November 11th, 2010."

The former England international was widely respected by the players at Stamford Bridge and his exit coincided with a worrying slump in form for Ancelotti's side.
Big wrench

The Blues have taken just one point from the three Premier League games in the wake of Wilkins' departure, but he has wished his former employers every success.

Wilkins said: "It has obviously been a big wrench leaving such an illustrious club and one which has played such a huge role in my playing and coaching career.

"I have great affection for the club, the staff, the players and its supporters and wish them all the very best for the remainder of this season and the future.

"I would also like to thank the club and the LMA for ensuring that matters have been brought to a swift and harmonious conclusion."

And LMA chief executive Richard Bevan added: "All parties are delighted that an agreement has been reached in a cordial and professional manner.

"I am sure that a manager of Ray's experience will be back involved in a managerial or coaching capacity soon."