Villas-Boas is running scared of Napoli, claims Lippi

Former Italy coach Marcello Lippi has revealed that Andre Villas-Boas is frightened at the prospect of facing Napoli in the Champions League.

Lippi recently spent time with Villas-Boas as they were invited to address students on the UEFA Pro Licence course in Scotland.

The World Cup winning coach admits Villas-Boas has big concerns over the form that Napoli have shown in the Champions League this season and could pose a major threat to his side.

Villas-Boas came under even more pressure at the weekend after his side were held to a 1-1 draw at home by Birmingham in the FA Cup and there were reports that Didier Drogba even gave the half-time team-talk to inspire the players.

If Chelsea lose against Napoli on Tuesday, Villas-Boas will face even more pressure to hold onto his job and Lippi is expecting another tough night for the west London club.

Lippi said: "Last month in Glasgow at a meeting of coaches, I met Villas-Boas and he was very concerned about the match against the Azzurri. This is a sign that the club are generally held in high regard internationally.

"Napoli are growing each year. Last year they were in a unique position as they fought for the title, so it is normal that fans are building up excessive expectations.

"But, if we look at this year, we realise that Napoli still have produced extraordinary things. Sure it would be ideal for them to position a little higher in the table, but they are still in the race for third place.

"In any case, for what the team, the coach and the club are doing, they deserve a great recognition. This team is growing slowly, last year they produced a great championship, this year they have played remarkably in the Champions League."