Chelsea interim manager Rafa Benitez has played down reports of a bust-up with his players.
Reports have emerged of a heated exchange between Benitez and the Blues squad, led by captain John Terry, in the wake of their 2-0 Premier League defeat at Manchester City.
However, the Spaniard maintained there were no issues with any of his senior men as they look to secure a positive end to the season.
"This was a normal meeting between players and technical staff, which happens after every game, it was normal talk, nothing else. You show your disappointment, that is normal," Benitez said.
"I can understand the frustrations of Terry, he is an important player for us and has been injured with his knee.
"It was very brief exchange of ideas, and that is it, nothing else. It is just a team talk after a defeat.
"We had a meeting on the pitch with my players and technical staff, which is part of our business.
"Now we have to move on and start thinking about Middlesbrough."
Asked about his relationship with the Chelsea players, Benitez said: "It is fantastic. I have no problem."
what do you think?
Jon Pringle
Think the declines been going on for a bit longer eh marty boy??
Gary Fitton
The players are the ones on the pitch yet they have a go at Benitez. They should look at themselves, they were outclassed by city . Some of them think they are bigger than the club, that's why its time to go for a few of them
Kate Byrne
Terry is a trouble maker I think it's him that's always making the team unstable!
Jaryd Govindan
roman needs to go but its obvious rafa will be gone altho roman employed him in his time of sacking
Martin Massey
Roman owns the club!!! If he will not sell how will he go?
Jaryd Govindan
i dont know but honestly mate if by some miracle mourinho came back do u think roman would guarantee him time to build his team.
Martin Massey
Maurinho never stays any where long (3 yrs) I think 1 problem is the players they buy are all quality but don't add up to a team.
Martin Massey
5:27pm on 26/2/2013
Bebitez has made Chelsea look ordinary the sooner he goes the better.
Adj Jackson
8:08pm on 26/2/2013
This comment has been removed for violations of our Terms and Conditions.
Martin Massey
6:35am on 27/2/2013
Not as long as yours 20yrs Johny boy and still in recession.
Adj Jackson
7:28pm on 27/2/2013
This comment has been removed for violations of our Terms and Conditions.