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Rafael Benitez: 'I need to manage the squad'

Benitez: 'I need to manage the squad'
© PA Photos
Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez says that his team must soldier on despite dropping more points in the race for Champions League qualification.

Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez has told his team to pick themselves up following today's 2-1 defeat to Southampton.

The result sees the Blues slip to fourth in the Premier League, just two points ahead of Arsenal.

The Spanish coach defended his team selection, which saw Eden Hazard left on the bench, with the FA Cup and Europa League fixtures fast approaching.

"We are really disappointed," Benitez told BBC Sport. "We were giving the ball away too easily.

"We don't have too many options in some positions so we have to manage the squad.

"We have a game in hand on Tottenham. We have to carry on and be ready for the next challenge."

Chelsea take on Manchester United in the FA Cup on Monday before the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final clash with Rubin Kazan.

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Chelsea interim manager Rafa Benitez prior to kick-off against Southampton on March 30, 2013
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