‘Seven points is nothing’ – Chelsea boss

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Andre Villas-Boas declared that Chelsea are genuine title challengers following their dramatic 2-1 win against Manchester City.

Frank Lampard’s late penalty lifted his team up to third in the table – seven points behind leaders City, whose defeat was their first in the Premier League this season.

Blues boss Villas-Boas admitted before the game that a loss, which would have left them 13 points behind Roberto Mancini’s side, would have virtually ended Chelsea’s title hopes.

And after seeing them close the gap, he said: “It was a good win and changes our challenge for the Premier League.

“Seven points, with so many teams competing for the title, is nothing. A lot of games have to be played yet.

“The reality is that there have never been so many teams competing for the title. Tottenham are competing, Liverpool are strong and solid, and Arsenal have revived their title hopes.”

And Villas-Boas hit back at reports he had instructed his players to run to him in celebration after scoring in order to show unity amid rumours of divisions in the camp.

“It was incorrect and unfair,” he insisted.

“I am not arrogant and have never asked the players to celebrate a goal with me. Goal celebrations are for the players.”

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