Chelsea's interim manager Rafael Benitez 'should get his chance'
Chelsea goalkeeper says fans should look beyond their resentment of coach and give him time to work his magic, beginning with Fulham
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech says Rafael Benitez must be given a chance to make his mark at the club, ahead of a potentially stormy Premier League derby with local rivals Fulham tonight.
Benitez can only hope the club's dissenting supporters eventually accept him, but the evidence of the interim manager's first game in charge suggests that will not happen soon.
Benitez will take charge of his second game since succeeding Roberto Di Matteo when Fulham visit Stamford Bridge, three days after Chelsea were held to a scoreless home draw by Premier League champions Manchester City.
The Spaniard was given an early indication during that game of the depth of resentment held towards him by some of the club's fans, who have not forgiven him for his role in the intense rivalry that has existed between Chelsea and Benitez's former club, Liverpool.
Some supporters have suggested the protests will continue, ensuring another difficult atmosphere for the home side as they attempt to revive their flagging season.
"I think there'll always be resentment," said Tim Rolls, a shareholder in Chelsea Pitch Owners, the fan-led group that owns the freehold of the Chelsea ground.