Chelsea star gives his verdict on Rafa Benitez appointment
Juan Mata. Photo credit: Adam Davy/EMPICS
Thursday, November 22, 2012
11:50 AM
Juan Mata has described Rafael Benitez as “a great coach” following his fellow Spaniard’s appointment as Chelsea manager.
Mata is the first Blues player to react publicly to the sacking of Roberto Di Matteo and he has now led the way in responding to the controversial decision to hand former Liverpool boss Benitez the reins until the end of the season.
“Rafa Benitez is a great coach,” he said.
“He’s got lots of experience and won a lot of trophies with Liverpool, taking them to a very high level. He knows the Premier League too.”
Benitez’s appointment has been seen by many as owner Roman Abramovich’s latest attempt to get £50million flop Fernando Torres scoring.
Torres has never recaptured the form he showed under Benitez at Anfield but Mata said: “I have total faith in Fernando Torres. He will score goals. He is a great striker and a great professional.”
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