Former Chelsea defender Graeme Le Saux has insisted that the Club World Cup is an opportunity for Rafael Benitez to win over the club's fans.

The Spaniard was given a hostile welcoming by many Blues fans when he took over as interim manager from Roberto Di Matteo last month.

However, Le Saux feels that Benitez can win over the supporters, starting by winning the Club World Cup.

"All he would be concerned about now is winning matches. From a practical point of view probably the last thing he wants to be doing is going to the other side of the world and disrupting the domestic season," Le Saux told BBC Sport.

"I think he will see it as an opportunity. In terms of the Premier League they can't afford too many more slip-ups. The gap between themselves and the leaders could be extended by the time they get back and psychologically that has the potential to have an impact.

"But in terms of the first big step in his career with Chelsea, the Club World Cup will be a great starting point. To come back with that achievement is something he can show to the Chelsea fans and any supporters will welcome trophies."

Chelsea take on Mexican side Monterrey in the semi-final of the cup on Thursday.