Chelsea midfielder Ramires has revealed that Roberto Di Matteo has lifted spirits at Stamford Bridge since being installed as interim head coach.
The Blues have won six of the eight matches since previous boss Andre Villas-Boas was axed and, after last week’s 1-0 victory at Benfica in the first leg of their quarter-final, are on course to meet Barcelona in the last four of the Champions League.
Ramires, 11/1 with bookmaker to score the opening goal in the second leg against the Portuguese side, said: “We went through a tough period, obviously, and have taken strength from this change in the coach, found new confidence after the change, feeling more respect in ourselves. Roberto has instilled great confidence in us.”
Chelsea are 7/1 to beat Ramires’ former club 2-1 in the second leg.
David Luiz, Didier Drogba and Branislav Ivanovic have all been passed fit for the game after recovering from ankle, toe and hamstring injuries respectively.