Terry says League Cup blues can boost Euro charge

John Terry, seen here 19 October 2005, has claimed that Chelsea's exit from the League Cup will strengthen their bid for glory in the Champions League this season

John Terry has claimed that Chelsea's exit from the League Cup will strengthen their bid for glory in the Champions League this season.

Chelsea went out of the League Cup on penalties after a 1-1 draw with Charlton last week, chipping the aura of invincibility that has developed around Jose Mourinho's side.

But Terry believes the reduced number of fixtures could well be a blessing in disguise as they seek to improve on the Champions League semi-final spot they have reached for the last two seasons.

"When you get Carling Cup games coming in between important Champions League matches, it doesn't help," the Chelsea skipper said, in comments echoed by Mourinho.

The Portuguese manager said: "We didn't want to go out against Charlton of course, but last season we had a lot of matches and pressures and January and February with the Carling Cup, the FA Cup and the Champions League.

"If you look on the positive side we will now be a little fresher for the other competitions this season."

Chelsea are in Seville on Tuesday seeking a win over Real Betis that will book their place in the knockout phase of this season's Champions League.

Chelsea winger Damien Duff has travelled with the squad to southern Spain and is expected to feature for the first time since recent knee surgery.

"Damien's been amazing how quickly he's come back after his operation," said Terry. "I don't know what surgeon he's been to see but it must have been (magician) Paul Daniels. He's buzzing and been great in training."