Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez feels he's managed to win over big sections of the support.

The abuse has not gone away, but it has reduced.

"I have received a lot of messages and emails here at the club," he told the Mirror. "Fans said, 'You are doing a good job, carry on. We understand the situation. Don't be worried because we are Chelsea fans and can see what you are trying to do.'

"I think we are doing a great job. Why? Because you can see the team has more balance, has a lot of young players who are learning and progressing in a ­transitional period.

"We're pleased with the evolution of the team but you want to win and finish in the top four to confirm all these things."