Benitez defends Torres after derby draw

Rafael Benitez defended Fernando Torres following Chelsea’s dismal goalless draw at home to Fulham.

Torres starred under Benitez at Liverpool and is hoping to rediscover his best form now his fellow Spaniard has taken over at Stamford Bridge.

However, the Blues striker again struggled to make an impact and has now gone seven domestic matches without scoring.

But Benitez said: “You saw how Fulham were defending, with lots of bodies there. It was not easy for him, Hazard, Oscar – or anyone.

“You have to give credit to Fulham. They worked hard in defence and got men behind the ball.

“But these are the games we have to win. Everybody here is disappointed.”

The Whites defended resolutely and had two chances to go ahead in the second half.

John Arne Riise failed to finish after being set up by Giorgos Karagounis and later had a deflected effort well saved by keeper Petr Cech.

Fulham boss Martin Jol said: “To get a possibility to nick it means it’s disappointing not to get three points – because we needed them.

“We could have nicked it and that would have been bad for them but great for us.”

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