Benitez predicts the final points tally this year could be much lower than the 91 Chelsea accumulated in winning their second consecutive title.

'I'm surprised so many people are saying if we lose, the title will be impossible,' said Benitez. 'Last year we won one of the first six league games but finished the season with 82 points and came third. This time,Iwouldn't besurprised if a team with 75 points finished first.

'I think the Premiership is much stronger this year and a lot of clubs have improved. More teams will beat each other.'