Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari enjoyed a spectacular debut, as his side turned on the style to rout Portsmouth 4-0 at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Scolari had spoken at length this week about his desire to bring a touch of Brazilian flair to a Chelsea side always high on perspiration but sometimes low on inspiration.

His new charges seem to have got the message already. Their touch, speed and movement left Portsmouth bewildered and produced a demolition that took the breath away.

Goals from Joe Cole and Nicolas Anelka put Scolari's team in control before Frank Lampard's penalty capped the most impressive 45 minutes you will see this season. Deco added a final flourish with a stunning strike in the last minute.

Jose Mourinho brought Chelsea success beyond their wildest dreams but even the 'Special One' never put on a show like this.

After Arsenal and Liverpool gave unconvincing displays on Saturday, this was a serious statement of intent from the leading contenders for Manchester United's title.

While it is only one game and Scolari has clearly inherited a supremely talented squad, the Brazilian has given his players the freedom to express their gifts in a way that promises quite a season in west London.

With Didier Drogba injured, Scolari deployed Anelka as a lone striker and instructed his midfielders to flood forward in support. After a slightly bashful wave and thumbs up, when he was introduced to the crowd, Scolari got down to business and his team followed suit.

With the exception of John Obi Mikel - charged with more defensive duties - Scolari's five-man midfield were able to interchange and join the attack at will.