The Argentine is under pressure to secure European football (Picture: Getty)

Mauricio Pochettino is facing an uncertain future at Chelsea with the club?s hierarchy ready to consider their options if the side fail to qualify for Europe, according to reports.

The west Londoners have had an indifferent campaign and are currently marooned in ninth place in the Premier League table following a 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Arsenal on Tuesday night.

There had been cause for optimism around Stamford Bridge after a run of eight games without defeat in the league, but back-to-back losses in the FA Cup against Manchester City and then their mauling at the Emirates has changed the mood.

According to The Times, there is now ?fresh doubt? over whether Pochettino is the long-term answer at Chelsea and he will need to finish the campaign strongly to solidify his position.
The club will review Pochettino?s position in the summer but it is now felt that European qualification will be imperative to his hopes of surviving.

Chelsea?s decision-makers will also assess the mood within the squad and any hint of the players giving up following their FA Cup exit will reflect very badly on the Argentine manager, with some already feeling he is too soft on the club?s underperforming stars.

The problem for Pochettino is that Chelsea?s FA Cup elimination at the weekend means their only chance of securing European football for next season now comes via their league placing.

Pochettino cut a forlor...