Calum McFarlane had to disappoint his family to take Chelsea interim role

Under-21 coach McFarlane received a sudden temporary promotion on Thursday after Enzo Maresca’s departure.

Chelsea interim head coach Calum McFarlane will take charge for the game at Manchester City but Strasbourg boss Liam Rosenior leads the way to be Enzo Maresca’s permanent successor. Picture: Adam Davy/PA

Chelsea interim head coach Calum McFarlane was on his way to a family day out in Windsor on Thursday when he got the call that led to him being thrust into the hot seat for Sunday’s visit to Manchester City.

Under-21 coach McFarlane, whose first ever match in charge in senior football will be against six-time Premier League winner Pep Guardiola, was diverted to the club’s Cobham training centre at around lunchtime after receiving a call from sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart.