CHELSEA fans paid tribute to sacked manager Thomas Tuchel by applauding in the 21st minute of their Champions League clash with RB Salzburg.
The German coach, 49, was dismissed by the Blues last week and swiftly replaced by Brighton manager Graham Potter.
Wednesday evening marked a new era at Stamford Bridge as Potter took charge of Chelsea for the first time.
But the home fans were not prepared to forget Tuchel entirely as they roundly applauded in the 21st minute – a nod to the German’s Champions League triumph with the club in 2021.
The applause replaced the giant “crowdsurfer” banner which Chelsea supporters would have used as a tribute, but due to the Queen’s death they decided not to as a sign of respect.
Before the game, Chelsea supporters movement “We Are The Shed” said: “Tonight will be our first game since Thomas Tuchel got sacked.
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“We will not be using the crowdsurfer out of respect to The Queen’s passing/pre match plans.
“Instead, we’re encouraging people to stand & applaud on the 21st min to say ‘thank you’ (the year he won us the CL).”
Tuchel broke his silence on Sunday as he addressed his sudden sacking by Chelsea.
The former Borussia Dortmund coach said: “This is one of the most difficult statements I have ever had to write – and it is one which I hoped I would not need to do for many years.
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“I am devastated that my time at Chelsea has come to an end.
“Thank you so much to all the staff, the players and the supporters for making me feel very welcome from the start.
“The pride and joy I felt at helping the team to win the Champions League and the Club World Cup will stay with me forever.
“I am honoured to have been a part of this club’s history and whatever the future holds for me, the memories of the last 18 months will always have a special place in my heart.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
