Rafael Benitez happy with reaction of Chelsea supporters

Rafael Benitez believes he has won over a significant section of Chelsea's fans as he prepares to leave the club.

The former Liverpool manager was an unpopular appointment when he replaced Roberto Di Matteo in November.

But the Blues won the Europa League and Sunday's 2-1 win over Everton confirmed third place in the Premier League and Champions League qualification.

"I received a lot of messages," said Benitez, who did not join the players for their lap of honour.

"I was quite happy with the response of a lot of the fans. You can't change the opinion of everyone but a lot of people realise what we've tried to do.

"You prefer people supporting the team and you, but if it's not the case you just try to do your job as well as you can."

The Spaniard has declared himself satisfied with his achievements at Stamford Bridge in a campaign that stretched to 69 games.

He added: "Winning finals and finishing third, with a team that finished sixth last year, is quite good.

"I am really proud because we have a team in transition and you can see young players, playing 69 games and doing well to the last game. I'm pleased for them and really proud."

Benitez revealed in March that he would be leaving Chelsea at the end of the campaign.

He said he expected his future employment options to become clearer over the next few weeks.

"We'll have to wait," he said. "Some leagues have finished now and people are making decisions so we'll see what happens."