Roberto Di Matteo linked with permanent Chelsea job

Roberto Di Matteo is in contention to become Chelsea manager on a permanent basis following the team's rejuvenation under him.

The Italian has impressed Chelsea owner Roman Abramovic, guiding the Blues to the FA Cup semi-finals and taking them within 90 minutes of the last four of the Champions League.

The Daily Mail understands that Di Matteo is now among the frontrunners to succeed Andre Villas-Boas.

Chelsea set up a semi-final with Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley with a 5-2 demolition of Leicester City.

Di Matteo's side defeated Benfica 1-0 last night away from home in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, and will face either Barcelona or AC Milan should they make it to the semis.