Benitez points the finger

It was like watching Harry Styles and Taylor Swift — you knew it would never last but it was fun all the same.

Rafa Benitez’s attack — it surely wasn’t a rant as people keep calling it, Rafa is always too calculating for that — on the section of Chelsea’s fans that can’t stand the Spaniard and his pop at the club for labelling him “interim” manager was hugely entertaining.

The hatred from that part of London towards Benitez goes back to his  days as Liverpool manager, of course, when the two clubs were bitter Champions League adversaries.

Now, after a fraught period in charge at Stamford Bridge, Benitez has obviously decided he won’t be there next season. The shackles are off and he clearly won’t go quietly.

Unless he’s sacked beforehand, Chelsea will be attracting headlines for all the wrong reasons for the remainder of the campaign.

It all begs the questions: why on earth did owner Roman Abramovich hire him in the first place and why on earth did Benitez say yes?

As predicted, it’s all ending in tears.

Saturday

11am unless stated

Chelsea v West Brom

Now in fourth, a win is a must for the Blues — and they should get it. But the real fun will be watching Benitez bombarded with abuse from his own fans.

Prediction: 2-0

Everton v Reading

Reading’s bid for safety has come unstuck after  two straight defeats. Can’t see them getting much joy at Goodison as Everton themselves look to arrest a mini losing streak.

Prediction: 3-1

Man Utd v Norwich

Damage limitation for the Canaries who at least can take some consolation from the likelihood of United resting key men — like Robin van Persie — for the big game that lies ahead against Real Madrid.

Prediction: 3-0

Southampton v QPR

Saints have played well recently but remain just three points off the drop zone. This feels like a huge game for both clubs with bottom club Rangers edging nearer last-chance saloon.

Prediction: 3-2

Stoke v West Ham

Four defeats in their past five games mean the Hammers are looking over their shoulder nervously in 14th. They need some of that famous Stoke resolve.

Prediction: 2-1

Sunderland v Fulham

The Black Cats are hardly purring at the minute but the visit of Fulham — so brittle on their travels — should yield a win. Adam Johnson to find a bit of overdue form, too.

Prediction: 1-0

Swansea v Newcastle

Fresh from their League Cup success, there will be a party atmosphere at the Liberty stadium. The Magpies are dangerous but leak goals — Michu to take full advantage.

Prediction: 3-2

Wigan v Liverpool

1.30pm

Wigan love living life on the edge and a last-day relegation scare is almost obligatory. Reds, well rested, should be too strong for them.

Prediction: 1-3

Sunday

Tottenham v Arsenal

12pm

Got to love a London derby and, Spurs fans look away now, I’d put money of a home win. Gunners lack confidence at the moment and a certain Gareth Bale will be bang up for this one.

Prediction: 3-1

Monday

Aston Villa v Man City

4pm

City haven’t given up — although most people have on their behalf. Villa remain a wholehearted shambles and Yaya Toure and David Silva will have a field day.

Prediction: 0-2