Benitez retains title belief

New Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez remains confident that his side can have a major say in the race for the Premier League title this season.

The Blues dropped two points at home on Wednesday evening as they were held to a goalless draw by Fulham, a result which left them seven points adrift of Manchester United and six behind Manchester City.

However, Benitez, whose side are 13/2 to be crowned champions, is adamant that the Blues are not out of the race just yet, saying: "It's still a long way to go. We have to keep going, we'll have chances.

"Remember, last season when City were ahead and it was 'easy'. Then they needed to win their last game, it's a long, long competition.

"The main thing is to win games. If we do, we'll be there and we can win competitions. We need to start doing that and the confidence will come back."

Meanwhile, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has predicted a close race for the title this season, having seen his side edge out West Ham 1-0 at Old Trafford.

He said: "With Chelsea drawing it draws us away from them a little bit further, but, of course, City are on our tails so it is going to be a long season."

The Red Devils are 1/1 to make up for last season's near miss by being crowned champions, with City 6/5 to defend their title successfully.

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