Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez admits their Club World Cup trip to Japan set the foundations for their form turnaround.

Yesterday's dogged win at Everton was their seventh win in eight matches in all competitions - the only defeat coming against Brazilian aces Corinthians in the World Club Final.

The Stamford Bridge boss said: "The trip to Japan was important for us because we were together for a long time.

"We had at least two or three training sessions where we could work on new things and you can see it working out.

"We are still making some mistakes that we have to manage, but the team is much better.

"What impresses me is the attitude of the players. They are keen to learn and train.

"I had a discussion with the staff today and we are really pleased with the way they work and train and behave each day - and that is important for the future.