Sam Kerr netted her 50th Women's Super League goal as Chelsea beat Aston Villa 3-0 on Sunday — but the victory was overshadowed by news of Graham Potter's sacking. 

The champions moved back to within one point of leaders Manchester United courtesy of strikes from Jelena Cankovic, Guro Reiten and Kerr. 

Yet while Emma Hayes' side were working to close the gap on their title rivals, the club were releasing news of Potter's departure. 

Hayes was disappointed to see her fellow manager shown the door, despite a largely disappointing spell at the helm of a star-studded team that should be pushing for Premier League glory. 

The Blues boss, 46, said: "Obviously I'm upset for Graham and the club. I know everybody wanted to make it work. 

"But if the owners feel they have to go in another direction, then of course as always I support the decisions and wish Graham the best. 

"With 10 games left to play in the league, I'm sure the boys will do everything to get us back on track. 

"I'm always gutted when managers lose their jobs. Graham's a top person. 

"I'm disappointed and haven't quite digested the news yet."