Sir Alex Ferguson: Rafael Benítez has done a good job at Chelsea

Sir Alex Ferguson has praised Rafael Benítez for the impact he has had at Chelsea in recent weeks ahead of Manchester United’s clash against the Blues.

The Spaniard’s appointment at Stamford Bridge as Roberto Di Matteo’s successor back in November sparked outrage amongst many Blues fans due to his frosty relationship with the club during his time at Liverpool.

But Ferguson has been impressed with Benítez’s recent impact, with the Blues currently third in the Premier League table and having booked their place in the Europa League final against Benfica.

“To be fair to him, he has done a good job in the last few weeks,” Ferguson told a news conference ahead of Sunday’s clash at Old Trafford.

“Chelsea have done fantastically well over the last few weeks. I think it is seven in a row they have won and they have reached the final of the Europa League.”

Chelsea must take on top-four rivals Tottenham in a tricky run-in and Ferguson believes that London derby could prove pivotal in the race for Champions League qualification.

“Getting rid of Roberto Di Matteo probably knocked them back a bit, and it is only in the last few weeks they have managed to find some consistency,” he continued.

“They knocked us out of the FA Cup and have done well in Europe, but it is clear the next two games are going to be massive for them.

“They have us then Spurs on Wednesday and then the Europa League. They have played Thursday, Sunday, Wednesday. Tottenham will be fresh.”