Monday, 28th January, 2013
Chelsea manager Rafael Benitez labelled the FA Cup as "massive" for the Blues, after they drew 2-2 away at Brentford yesterday.
Despite winning the FA Cup last season, the holders were just seven minutes from being dumped out by League One outfit Brentford, before Fernando Torres struck in the 83rd minute to grab them a replay.
And for Benitez, it was clearly very important that Chelsea remain in the competition. Indeed, along with the Europa League, the FA Cup is Chelsea’s most realistic chance of silverware this season.
"For us, it’s important to do well in every competition", Benitez told his club’s official site.
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"The top four is the priority, but we want to progress in the other competitions.
"The FA Cup is massive, Chelsea won it last season and we will try to do it again."
Benitez showed just how seriously he is taking the FA Cup by naming a very strong side to play Brentford.
The former Liverpool manager included Branislav Ivanovic, Ashley Cole, John Terry and Gary Cahill in defence, picked Ramires, Frank Lampard and Oscar in his midfield, and selected Torres up front. He also played Ryan Bertrand and Marko Marin, while Ross Turnbull was in goal.
Next up for Chelsea is a return to Premier League action, with a trip to face Reading on Wednesday.
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