Benitez plays down bust-up

Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez has played down reports of a training ground bust-up with some senior members of the squad.



It was reported on Tuesday that Benitez was involved in a heated exchange with a number of players, including captain John Terry, following the Blues’ defeat to Manchester City on Sunday.



Benitez was quizzed about the reports at his press conference on Tuesday but was quick to play down the incident, claiming his relationship with his players is good.



“This was a normal meeting between players and technical staff, which happens after every game, it was normal talk, nothing else. You show your disappointment, that is normal,” Benitez explained.



“I can understand the frustrations of Terry, he is an important player for us and has been injured with his knee. It was very brief exchange of ideas, and that is it, nothing else. It is just a team talk after a defeat.



“We had a meeting on the pitch with my players and technical staff, which is part of our business. Now we have to move on and start thinking about Middlesbrough.”



Benitez has endured a tough time in his short spell in charge of the Blues but he insists he has a good relationship with his squad.



“It is fantastic. I have no problem,” he said.