'What I'm hearing' - Rio Ferdinand delivers stark Mauricio Pochettino Chelsea sack verdict

Rio Ferdinand has expressed his doubts over Mauricio Pochettino's future at Chelsea, despite the Argentine guiding the Blues back into Europe with a sixth-place finish.

Pochettino, who took the reins at Stamford Bridge last summer, has had a tumultuous first season in charge, but managed to secure European football for Chelsea by winning their final five games of the campaign. However, recent weeks have seen speculation mount over Pochettino's future at the club, and Ferdinand is not convinced that he will remain in west London.

Speaking on his Vibe with Five YouTube channel, Ferdinand said: "From what I'm hearing about Mauricio Pochettino, I'm not sure he's going to be there at Chelsea. The mutterings I'm hearing coming out, I don't know if it's going to end well there."

When asked whether Pochettino's recent success with the fans could influence the decision on his job, the Manchester United legend was sceptical. "I don't think it's in their (the fans') hands," he added.

"I think it's the hierarchy and I think there could be a decision being made between those guys. I don't think he'll be there (next season), if I was a betting man."

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football.london understands that Pochettino's position as Chelsea boss will be reviewed in the coming weeks, which was always the plan when he took over. The Argentine met with owner Todd Boehly on Friday and his future may have been one of the subjects spoken about.

"All I can tell you is on Friday night, Todd invited me for a dinner and it was a very nice dinner together," Pochettino said on Sunday. "But I don't know about the rumours about the review.

"My staff tomorrow are flying for their holidays. I am going to stay in London for a few more days. I am always open. My phone is going to be on."