Benitez ‘would have to be a dope’ to fail at Chelsea – Redknapp
Harry Redknapp says it is virtually impossible for Rafael Benitez to fail at Chelsea given the quality of the squad he inherited.
Benitez, disliked among Blues fans from his time as Liverpool boss, was an unpopular appointment when he replaced Champions League winner Roberto Di Matteo in November.
Chelsea have since enjoyed some impressive results under the interim manager, prompting speculation that he could stay at the helm beyond the end of the season.
But QPR boss Redknapp said: “You’d have to be a dope to have messed it up when you’ve got that group of players. He’s a clever guy.
“He’s walked in to a group of players there that are Champions League winners. You’ve got a chance, haven’t you?”
Redknapp’s side, bottom of the table with only one league win this season, face a daunting task in Wednesday’s west London derby against the Blues.
Chelsea were rampant in their recent 8-0 drubbing of Aston Villa in their last home match, while QPR were taken apart by Liverpool at Loftus Road.
It has left Redknapp wondering what the best approach will be for Rangers against their in-form neighbours.
He admitted: “It’s so difficult. If you open yourself up you can get ripped up like Aston Villa did.
“We’ve got to go there and get a bit of pride back. Whatever else, we’ve got to make sure we’re in the game and are tough to beat.”
Meanwhile, Redknapp has warned Chelsea they will make a huge mistake if they allow Frank Lampard to leave.
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