Rafa Benitez 'delighted' with Chelsea fans' reaction

Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez insisted he was delighted with the atmosphere inside Stamford Bridge for the 1-0 victory against West Brom.

 

The Spaniard had complained about Blues fans during the week and some unveiled anti-Benitez banners on Saturday.

There were also chants against the ex-Liverpool boss but he did not face the serious hostility some had anticipated.

"The fans were behind the team and the atmosphere inside the stadium was really good," he said.

Following the midweek FA Cup win at Middlesbrough, Benitez had reacted angrily to criticism from travelling Chelsea supporters fiercely opposed to his appointment - supporters were "wasting their time" in protesting against him, he said, and he suggested their actions could cost the club a top-four place. 

Chelsea fans express their displeasure at Benitez's presence 

And in their first game since those comments, Chelsea fans produced banners opposing Benitez and chanted against the Spaniard while calling for Jose Mourinho's return during the 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

Banners were dotted around Stamford Bridge reading "The Interim One" - a clear reference to "The Special One" Mourinho - and "Never Wanted. Rafa Out", but Benitez shrugged off the dissenting voices.

"We played some very good football and the atmosphere was good," said Benitez. "I was really pleased the fans were behind the team and really pleased because the players played with a lot more confidence.

"It was all very, very good and very, positive."