Roberto Di Matteo did not expect Chelsea to produce a scintillating display against QPR on the back of their European heroics.
Di Matteo delighted with derby display
Roberto Di Matteo admits he did not expect Chelsea to produce a scintillating display against Queens Park Rangers on the back of their European heroics.
Tuesday's 10-man effort against Barcelona offered big rewards - a place in the UEFA Champions League final - but it took a lot out of the Blues.
There were, however, no signs of tiredness as they swept aside capital rivals QPR at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
A revitalised Fernando Torres led the derby charge, as he netted a hat-trick, and Chelsea ended up running out 6-1 winners to close to within a point of the Premier League's top four.
"I have to be honest, after the midweek Champions League game, sometimes it is very difficult to re-focus," Di Matteo told
Sky Sports.
"But the players did extremely well today to focus on this Premier League game and I have to say that they surprised me.
"We played well today. We played some good football. We scored goals and we were after three points so we are pleased with the way we got them."
Credit
Di Matteo shuffled his pack on Sunday in an effort to try and aid Chelsea's trophy quest - with the Blues also safely through to next weekend's FA Cup final - and was delighted to see those drafted in perform at such a high level.
Torres was among those handed a starting berth and his showing drew deserved praise from a man who has never lost faith in the Spaniard's ability.
"He deserves all the credit," said Di Matteo.
"He has been working hard and the goals don't always come. I was always pleased with his attitude and work-rate and it's pleasing to see the strikers score for us."
Di Matteo was also quick to salute the performance of club captain John Terry following his reckless red card at Camp Nou.
He said: "He is our leader. I said this after the Barcelona game and again today he showed the leadership that he has.
"We had an unusual back four today and he really led the team. He was outstanding."
