Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas admits his players are testing his management ability. Fifth-placed Blues are a massive 17 points adrift of leaders Manchester City and struggling to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in the Roman Abramovich era.

AVB said: "You must convince your players your methods will lead them to success. No matter the style you need to sell your method to your players.

"You need to have confidence and belief. Players always test the manager to find out his weaknesses.

"They test your leadership and competence, that is a normal part of the game.

"If you can sustain yourself through this period, it can build the basis to take you forward. The testing, if you cope, will strengthen your leadership position."