He wasn’t the most popular appointment, it has to be said, but Rafael Benitez looks set to remain in charge of Chelsea for the short-term, at least. Since the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo, fans have made their voices heard regarding the Spaniard’s position of interim first-team manager.
Since taking over the reins, the Blues have scored just once, lost once and mustered two 0-0 draws. This hasn’t eased Benitez’s role at the club, with some media outlets suggesting that owner Roman Abramovich is prepared to wield his axe already.
While the rumours proved dumb founded, it still hasn’t halted the speculation that the Russian Oligarch is prepared to intervene and bring in his own people to assist/undermine – delete as appropriate – the Chelsea boss.
Nevertheless, the West London outfit take on Danish outfit Nordsjaelland in their final Champions League group game tonight, with the current holders needing to secure a victory over the Scandinavian side and hope results elsewhere go their way.
A win for Benitez will unlikely sway the banner sporting doubters, but three points will ease the burden that is placed upon his table waiting shoulders. Chelsea are currently without a win in seven Premier League games, which has seen them fall away from the chasing pack as they look to end their three year wait for Premiership glory.
As anyone will tell you, victory breeds confidence, a facet the club are devoid of at Stamford Bridge. The share of the spoils will provide just that tonight ahead of a tough trip to Sunderland on Saturday. Needless to say, those voicing their frustrations will be in attendance tonight, but will leave happy if a win is secured. More importantly, however, three points will improve Benitez’s position at the club while giving him a platform of which to build upon.