Cup win can help Di Matteo - Terry

Chelsea captain John Terry believes victory in the FA Cup can strengthen interim manager Roberto Di Matteo's claims to be appointed to the job on a full-time basis.

Chelsea captain John Terry believes victory in the FA Cup can strengthen interim manager Roberto Di Matteo's claims to be appointed to the job on a full-time basis.

Published May 4, 2012

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London – Chelsea captain John Terry believes victory in the FA Cup can strengthen interim manager Roberto Di Matteo's claims to be appointed to the job on a full-time basis.

Di Matteo has overseen a dramatic transformation in Chelsea's fortunes since taking over from sacked predecessor Andre Villas-Boas in March, guiding the club to the FA Cup and Champions League finals.

Although Chelsea's league form has left the club struggling to secure an all-important top-four finish, Terry has praised the impact Di Matteo has had in such a relatively short space of time.

Di Matteo's future at Stamford Bridge remains uncertain, with Chelsea's hierarchy insisting no decision on a permanent successor to Villas-Boas will be taken until the close season.

However Terry told reporters Friday that victory over Liverpool at Wembley on Saturday could enhance Di Matteo's CV.

“It would do him no harm at all,” Terry said.

“He's obviously done very well in the league and all competitions to get us where we are today.

“To win it (the cup) will put himself in a very good position.

“He's not thinking of that at the moment, he's not letting the players get distracted by anything.

“He's very passionate, he's Chelsea through and through, and that's certainly rubbed off on the players.

“So, if we can do it with the added bonus that Robbie can get the job at the end, that'd be great.”

Terry earlier hailed Di Matteo as “a revelation” since he assumed control.

“He shows that he cares and the passion shows in the team meetings and on the training field when things don't go well,” Terry told Chelsea TV.

“He's got a great rapport with the fans, a great understanding with the players. He's communicating with everyone and things have gone very well for us. So, he deserves a huge amount of credit for that.”

Terry also praised Di Matteo's careful rotation of the squad, which has seen Chelsea remain competitive on three fronts despite a punishing schedule.

“We've had so many games,” Terry said. “It's been training and playing every two or three days. He (Di Matteo) just kept everyone fresh in the mind that they can get a chance and the opportunity.

“Then, once you do get that opportunity, if you do well, you will stay in the side and progress and keep your starting place, which everyone throughout the side has felt.” – Sapa-AFP

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