Benitez lucky with Chelsea timing - Sir Alex Ferguson

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson says Rafael Benitez is "very lucky" to take over as Chelsea manager following the departure of Roberto Di Matteo with an immediate chance to win a trophy.

The Blues travel to Japan for a Club World Cup semi-final on 13 December with the final three days later.

Ferguson said: "On his CV [Benitez, who also won the competition during his brief spell at Inter Milan,] could have two world club championships and nothing to do with the construction of the teams."

Speaking before the news of Mark Hughes sacking by QPR, Ferguson said it was surprising Rangers, who face United at Old Trafford on Saturday, had only taken four points and that he had thought they would be mid-table at this stage of the season.

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