Chelsea manager Rafael Benitez was delighted with his side’s performance, as they beat Aston Villa 8-0 in their Premier League clash.

The Blues rarely looked under threat from the travelling side, who entered the fixture on the back of a 3-1 win over Liverpool.

Benitez has been far from a popular figure at Stamford Bridge since his arrival last month, with the supporters voicing their discontent frequently at the club’s sacking of Roberto Di Matteo.

However, the chants for the Spaniard’s departure were few and far between as they trounced the Midlanders in a performances that pleased Benitez:

"Everything impressed me. We have been talking before about the mentality of the team; attacking, creating chances we had good movement, we were good in defence. As a team we had the balance we are looking for.” He told Sky Sports.

"We have played some good games and this is one of the games. In terms of scoring goals, in terms of balance yes."

Much criticised defender David Luiz was deployed in a central midfield role during the game, as Benitez reshuffled his team ahead of the hectic festive fixture list.

The Brazilian scored a fine free-kick early on, delighting his manager:

"I have said before he can play well in midfield and at centre-half.

"He's good in the air, can use both feet, can score goals and he can tackle. He has a lot of attributes."

Fernando Torres opened the scoring before goals from Luiz, Branislav Ivanovic, Frank Lampard, Eden Hazard, Oscar and a Ramires double completed a convincing win.