Benitez refuses to discuss fans’ reaction

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Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez refused to discuss the home fans’ reaction to his much-publicised midweek outburst following his side’s impressive 1-0 win over West Brom at Stamford Bridge.

Instead the Spaniard, who criticised both the club’s hierarchy and sections of the supporters after Wednesday’s FA Cup victory over Middlesbrough, praised the Chelsea faithful for getting behind the players.

There were numerous anti-Benitez banners on display against the Baggies and he was jeered throughout the game, although the abuse was steady rather than explosive and never seemed to get in the way of the support for the team.

But Benitez repeatedly refused to talk about anything other than the match.

“I was really pleased with the performance. It was a great performance,” he said.

“For 75 minutes we were in control with good passes and good opportunities.

“Their keeper was man of the match and that says a lot. We had a lot of attempts and played very good football and the atmosphere was good.

“I was really pleased the fans were behind the team and really pleased because the players played with more confidence. It was very positive.

“The team is doing well. I will keep working hard I am really pleased with performance on the pitch and the atmosphere was really good.”

He also refused to discuss his future and still expects to be in charge until his contract runs out in May.

“It is the same situation. I have a contract until end of the season,” he said.

“The fans are behind the team. Today we won and everybody was happy. The game was fantastic.”

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