I feel sorry for him - Maresca expresses sympathy for Postecoglou after sacking

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca admitted he "felt sorry for Ange" after his team's decisive win at the City Ground on Saturday.

The Australian's tenure at the club ended after just 39 days, making it the shortest reign for any permanent manager to depart during a Premier League season.

Goals from Josh Acheampong, Pedro Neto, and Reece James sealed the crucial three points for the Blues, lifting them to fourth in the Premier League table.

The victory also marked a historic moment for Chelsea, who have now won three consecutive away league games against the Tricky Trees for the first time.

The match also highlighted Chelsea's emerging young talent, as they became the first Premier League team this season to have two different teenagers score (Estevao and Acheampong).

This is the first time two teenagers have scored for the club in the same season since the 1998-99 campaign, which featured Mikael Forssell and Celestine Babayaro.

Forest announced Postecoglou's departure just 18 minutes after the final whistle. Speaking to beIN, Maresca offered his condolences to his counterpart.

"I feel sorry for Ange. But this business is about winning games. For all of us, it's the same consequence if we don't win games," Maresca stated.

Maresca, who was serving a touchline ban, watched as his side struggled to create chances in the first half.

However, Chelsea emerged transformed after the break, with Reece James marking his 200th club appearance with both a goal and an assist.

"The first half, we struggled. They were good; we made mistakes where we gave them a boost. In the second half, we were much better, controlled the game very well. We needed to make the changes in this moment, protect players, some of the changes were already planned," Maresca explained.

Despite being without several key players, Maresca praised his team's commitment.

"They are all happy. For the three points, we are six; seven of our main players out. It shows the compromise from all of them," he added.

Chelsea will now turn their attention to European competition as they prepares to host Ajax in the Champions League on Wednesday.