We're In Transition - Benitez

The squad has begun to evolve at Stamford Bridge this season after a number of signings were made in the summer which brought down the average age.

Chelsea have made good progress in the Capital One Cup and also thrashed Southampton in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday, but they have struggled for consistency in the league and currently trail leaders Manchester United by 14 points.

Club owner Roman Abramovich has always demanded success since taking control at the club but Benitez believes expectations should be revised as he builds for the future.

"I don't need to convince anyone this is a period of transition," he said "We all have enough intelligence and experience to realise this.

"Anyone can analyse the squad and see that some new players have come in and some others are getting older.

"It doesn't matter what anyone thinks - the situation is that this is what we have.

"Before at Chelsea they had a lot of big names. Now we have a good team with young players who are doing well but need some experience in the Premier League and some older players who can help them.

"It's not easy to find a reason why we are so strong in the cup competitions but inconsistent in the league.

"When you are a long way from achieving your target in the league then maybe it is easy for the players to lose focus."

Source: Legit.ng