Geoff Hurst, the England hero of the 1966 world cup was manager of Chelsea for his second and final season during the 1980 -81 campaign. It proved to be a disappointing year for Chelsea as they failed to lift themselves out of the second division, only managing a 12th place finish. The Blues were frustrated out of the League cup, suffering defeat against Cardiff City in the second round. Peter Borota was in fine form for the club during the season. Ron Harris left the club after making 655 league appearances for the Blues.
Mike Fillery was in outstanding form for Chelsea during the 1981 -82 season, however their league performance was far from impressive, finishing off, once again in 12th position. The Blues reached the quarter finals of the FA Cup, suffering defeat against London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur.
The 1982 -83 season proved to be a debacle for Chelsea as they finished the season off in 18th position. John Neal was appointed manager the previous season and he at least kept the club at bay from relegation. Joey Jones was in fine form for the Blues and was named as their football player of the year.
John Neal guided the club to a fine triumph during the 1983 -84 league season as they convincingly won the second division title, in turn resulting in promotion back into the top flight. Joey Jones and David Speedie were in exhilarating form for the club.
The 1984 -85 league season proved to be a great one for John Neal’s Chelsea side in what proved to be his last season in charge at the club. The Blues finished it off in sixth place and reached the semi finals of the League Cup, meeting Sunderland in the last four suffering defeat. Eddie Niedzwiecki was in fine form for the Blues.