Rafa: Cup still there for us to win
RAFAEL Benitez has conceded defeat in the race for the Premier League title — but insists Chelsea's Capital One Cup hopes are still very much alive.
Benitez has admitted that Chelsea are unlikely to overhaul the two Manchester clubs at the top of the Premier League table.
But the former Liverpool boss believes the Blues are still in contention for three other trophies — even though Swansea are the bookmakers' favourites to reach the League Cup final.
Michael Laudrup's men lead 2-0 going into the semi-final second leg at home to Chelsea tomorrow night.
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And though the visitors are favourites to win the game, Swansea are the bookies' tip to progress in the tie.
Yet Benitez insisted: "The Capital One Cup is there, the FA Cup is still open and the Europa League is still open.
"I just have to give the team confidence that we can win against anyone. If you have that belief, it becomes easier."
Defeat in the first leg was one of a number of disappointing home results suffered by Chelsea in recent weeks.
But aside from the Club World Cup final, they have not lost away from the Bridge since December 1.
And they head into the Swansea return in buoyant mood having overcome Arsenal on Sunday to lift some of the pressure on Benitez, who has not been accepted by some Chelsea fans.
"Credit to everyone," said goalkeeper Petr Cech.
"In a difficult moment, when we haven't been doing so well, we managed to stick together and get the win."
Former Swansea striker Jason Scotland has become a free agent after agreeing a settlement on the last six months of his contract at Ipswich.
Scotland, 33, was out of favour under new boss Mick McCarthy.
2 Comments
by cresswell1
Tuesday, January 22 2013, 3:37PM
“2-0 fror Swansea”
by swanseaola
Tuesday, January 22 2013, 3:00PM
“They (Chelsea) are be looking forward to their match on Weds. night. But so will the Swans and the Jack Army certainly will be.
The Liberty will be rockin and rollin and bouncin!”