Chelsea players trained on Friday morning for the first time without Antonio Conte, after the Italian was officially axed from his post as manager at Stamford Bridge.

The squad had learned about Conte's official departure from the club before heading out to get underway with a session at their Cobham base.

Eddie Newton stepped in to take charge of proceedings, as the squad gathered around for a quick debrief before action got under way.

Chelsea returned to training on Friday for the first time without manager Antonio Conte

The players were made aware Conte has officially parted ways with the club

Eddie Newton (centre) led the training session in the absence of the recently sacked Conte

Players such as Ross Barkley (right) will be hoping for more chances under the incoming boss

Cesc Fabregas was back on Chelsea duty following his summer as a BBC World Cup pundit

Alvaro Morata was back in training after missing out on Spain's squad for the tournament

The Blues are now preparing for their upcoming pre-season clashes around the globe

Carlo Cudicini (left) stepped in to help Newton (centre) conduct the session on Friday

Chelsea had released a short statement on their official website earlier in the day in which they confirmed Conte's departure in 61 words and, despite wishing him well for the future, failed to add a word of thanks for his achievements.

Conte won the Premier League and FA Cup during his two-years in charge in west London, though the relationship between himself and the Chelsea board soon soured.

The Blues are now set to bring in former Napoli coach Maurizio Sarri ahead of the pre-season tour.

Barkley vies for space under the challenge of Morata during a short-sided match

The players now face a wait to learn who will succeed Conte in the coming days

The squad are soon set to travel to Australia to face Perth Glory on Monday, July 23

Conte started his tenure magnificently as he guided Chelsea to the Premier League title

Despite guiding the club to two major trophies, the club released a short statement on Friday

Carlo Cudicini, Conte's second in command during his time with the club, pitched in to help Newton with Friday's session.

The Blues are preparing for their upcoming clash against Perth Glory. Chelsea will travel to Australia ahead of the fixture on Monday, July 23, before heading off to compete in the International Champions Cup.

Clashes with Arsenal and Italian giants Inter Milan await, before a Community Shield showdown with last season's runaway title victors Manchester City.