Soccer aid star Seedorf sacked by AC Milan

Fresh from hitting a hat-trick in UNICEFs Soccer Aid charity match for a Rest of the World XI, Clarence Seedorf has lost his job as AC Milan head coach, with academy boss Filippo Inzaghi replacing him.

The two were teammates for the Red Half of the San Siro during a hugely successful era for the Rossoneri under Carlo Ancelotti. Milan win two Serie A titles, as many Champions League crowns and the Coppa Italia under his management.

Coaching novice Seedorf lasted less than six months after succeeding Massimiliano Allegri in January. Inzaghi, 40, has been appointed on a two-year contract and will have no European commitments next term because of Milan’s eighth place finish this season.

Seedorf, 38, gets the sack despite winning half of his 20 matches in charge of the Rossoneri, but Inzaghi does possess more coaching experience after two years looking after the Milan youngsters.

Four-time Champions League winner Seedorf, the only player to have lifted that trophy for three different clubs (Ajax and Real Madrid too), starred as the Rest of the World XI trounced England 4-2 at Old Trafford.

Managed for the charity game by Jose Mourinho, four Dutch internationals of yesteryear were involved – Edwin van der Sar in goal for the first half, defender Jaap Stam and combative midfielder Edgar Davids joined Seedorf.

The Netherlands national side of today are 33/1 to win the World Cup with Coral, and Louis van Gaal’s Clockwork Orange team contains current Milan midfield anchor Nigel de Jong. He is one of eight players currently on the books of the Rossoneri appears at the World Cup finals.

A trio of Italy internationals – Ignazio Abate, Mario Balotelli and Mattia De Sciglio – also play for Milan and could face England in their opening Group D game. The Azzurri are 6/4 to defeat the Three Lions in Manaus.