Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez immediately turned his attention towards Wednesday’s west London derby at Fulham following the FA Cup semi-final defeat against Manchester City.
The 2-1 loss at Wembley means the Europa League is now Chelsea’s only remaining chance to win silverware this season.
They are also battling to secure a Champions League place for next season – making the clash with Fulham a hugely important match in its own right.
Benitez said: “Now we have to concentrate on the league and for us Fulham on Wednesday will be a massive game.
“We know very well that we have to focus and be ready.
“We will try to keep the players thinking positively and about the good things we did in the second half [against City].”
The cup exit was a painful one for Benitez, who felt Chelsea should have been awarded a late penalty for a foul on Fernando Torres by Vincent Kompany.
And City striker Sergio Aguero seemed lucky not to be sent off after appearing to stamp on David Luiz.
But Benitez also admitted: “You have to give credit to Man City because they are a very good team.
“They are strong and technically good and they have players who can make a difference in defence, midfield and attack.”
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This post was last modified on 14/04/2013
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COYW!