Andre Villas-Boas is walking a tightrope as Chelsea prepare for a crucial Champions League last-16 first leg against Napoli. A heavy defeat could seal his fate, following a run of poor results that include a 1-1 FA Cup draw with Championship side Birmingham City.
That display prompted chief executive Ron Gourlay to shake his head in dismay, while chairman Bruce Buck watched sternly. Former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley criticised Villas-Boas, saying: 'He just seems to be getting himself in a bigger hole week by week.'
Burley added that the manager's claim of not needing player backing as long as he has the owner's support was misguided. With Guus Hiddink taking charge of Anzhi Makhachkala, Abramovich has few options to replace Villas-Boas, though Burley noted the owner has not let money stand in his way before.
Captain John Terry acknowledged the importance of the match, especially with Arsenal likely to exit the competition. 'We could end up being the only English team left in the Champions League and it is really important for us to make a good start to the tie,' he said.
Chelsea have experience in high-stakes Champions League matches, which could prove vital against a Napoli side less accustomed to such pressure.
