Alex Ferguson takes a jibe at Rafa Benitez

Sir Alex Ferguson has labelled Rafa Benitez 'lucky' as his old rival from Liverpool prepared for life at Chelsea.

Manchester United manager Ferguson and Benitez clashed publicly when Liverpool pushed their north-west rivals hard for the Barclays Premier League title in 2009.

Now Benitez - who subsequently went on to fail during a brief stint at Inter Milan - is back in the English game as Chelsea's interim manager following the midweek sacking of Roberto Di Matteo.

Ferguson, who received a boost when Wayne Rooney was passed fit for Saturday's clash with QPR, said: 'Everyone feels for Roberto Di Matto and quite rightly.

'It's quite amazing that you win the FA Cup and the Champions League. The biggest disappointment for me is that in two weeks time they go to the World Championships (Club World Cup).

'You'd think that they would give the guy the chance to win a World Championship.

'Rafa Benitez is very lucky because on his CV in two weeks time he could have two World Championships to his name - and nothing to do with the teams.

'Jose Mourinho won the treble after going to Inter Milan. He (Benitez) took over and won a World Championship without having to do anything.

'He had nothing to do with the construction of the teams and that's where I feel real disappointment for Roberto Di Matteo. 'He could really have on his CV an FA Cup, a Champions League and a World Club Championship.

'It's a pity for him. A few weeks ago we were looking at a three-horse race (for title). I don't think that's out of the question yet.'

Ferguson's side are up against bottom club QPR 24 hours before city and Chelsea clash and Rooney is available following a bout of tonsillitis.