Benitez not sure if he’ll join players for last lap

Rafael Benitez yesterday declined to reveal if he will take part in his Chelsea squad’s lap of appreciation following tomorrow’s final match of the season at Stamford Bridge.

Benitez, who refused to entertain the possibility of a play-off with Arsenal for third place in the Premier League, has fulfilled his brief in his seven months in charge, by achieving qualification for the Champions League and winning silverware, with Wednesday’s Europa League triumph over Benfica in Amsterdam.

Yet, due to his prior association with Liverpool and the vitriol directed towards him earlier this season, Benitez was reluctant to comment on whether he will join his squad in accepting the acclaim of supporters following this weekend’s Premier League match with Everton.

“I will try to concentrate on the game, enjoy, hopefully, the game and see what happens after,” said Benitez.

“What I can guarantee is that I will try to win the game. That is the main thing.”

Benitez believes his side deserve third place.

He added: “It’s always important to finish well. We have been working so hard during the season that it would be a pity if we cannot guarantee top three.”

Benitez agreed with midfielder Frank Lampard, who this week agreed a one-year contract extension, that Chelsea require some stability as they look for a 10th permanent manager in 10 years of Roman Abramovich’s ownership.

Benitez said: “Every club, all around the world, needs stability. I think it’s good.”

The 53-year-old Spaniard faces an unsettling period himself once he leaves Chelsea following the USA friendlies with Manchester City.

With David Moyes joining Manchester United, Everton are seeking a new boss, but Benitez cannot envisage a future at Goodison Park, even though his family home remains on The Wirral.

Benitez, whose preference is to stay in England, said: “I don’t think so. I have a lot of respect for Everton and I think that they’re doing really well. It’s not easy. There are not too many options.”