Chelsea Forum (Stamford Bridge) [Archive] - Page 13

Ultimate10002000

10-02-2007, 08:36 PM

Drogba wants double whammy

Chelsea's leading goalscorer Didier Drogba insists winning Europe's Golden Boot would mean nothing if Chelsea don't win the league.

The Ivorian hitman, who has 23 goals so far this season, would prefer to win both awards to round off one of the best seasons of his career.

Drogba's 77th-minute goal in his country's 1-0 friendly win over Guinea this week was his 17th for Ivory Coast as a Chelsea player making him the club's all-time international top scorer, moving clear of the 16 scored by England legend Jimmy Greaves while at Stamford Bridge.

Now the 28-year-old wants his goals to earn him another title-winning medal and the coveted Golden Boot for being top scorer in Europe.

Drogba said: "Of course I can win the Golden Boot. But as much as I'd love to be the top scorer, it would mean nothing if Chelsea don't win the league. I'd like to win the Premiership and the Golden Boot.

"I've scored some great goals this year. If I had to pick my best, I'd say it was the one at Everton. It was a dramatic last-minute goal and a very important one because we came from behind to win."

Drogba will lead the attack against Middlesbrough at Stamford Bridge although Chelsea may be furthered hampered by injuries to midfielder Mikel Jon Obi and Michael Ballack.

Chelsea will know the result of scans on Ballack's injured thigh on Friday after the German captain became their latest casualty.

The champions are already without England midfielder Joe Cole and left-back Ashley Cole and Ballack was forced out of Germany's clash with Switzerland with a thigh strain in midweek.

Obi, the subject of a row between Nigeria and Chelsea over an alleged thigh injury he sustained in the Premiership win over Charlton last weekend, is also doubtful despite playing 90 minutes in the game against Ghana this week.

Chelsea are to contact FIFA over the issue and insist the player was injured and the club are understood to be perplexed as to why Nigeria selected the midfielder knowing this.

Chelsea hope to continue their recent return to form against Middlesbrough in what will the first game of a testing 16 days for coach Jose Mourinho's men with the Blues playing a crucial game in all four of the competitions they are involved in.

In February 2005 they faced a similar 16-day test but they crashed out of the FA Cup to Newcastle, lost the first leg of their Champions League clash with Barcelona before winning the Carling Cup by beating Liverpool.

Now they have to beat Middlesbrough in the Premiership, overcome an FA Cup tie with Blackpool or Norwich, beat Mourinho's former club Porto in the Champions League and then take on Arsenal in the final of the Carling Cup before the end of the month.

Ultimate10002000

10-02-2007, 08:36 PM

Agent casts doubt on Lamps' future

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard's agent says he is not sure if the England star will be at Stamford Bridge next season.

And that has led to renewed speculation that the former West Ham ace will quit leave the Bridge for Barcelona at the end of the season.

Lampard is a long-term target for the reigning European champions, and they appear determined to get their man.

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon recently said Lampard was close to signing a new Blues deal, but agent Steve Kutner quickly denied that was the case.

And Kutner told Radio Barcelona's La Graderia show: "Frank Lampard is a Chelsea player until the end of the season. From then, we have not decided anything yet. Who knows what can happen?

"Right now he is concentrating on one thing and that is playing for Chelsea. It's still too early to say where he will go if he leaves the club."

Lampard is now 28 and with two years left on his current deal he may see this summer as the ideal time to get one last big move.

The fact he has a Spanish girlfriend only fuels the speculation that Barcelona would be his destination.

Ultimate10002000

10-02-2007, 08:37 PM

Blues duo set to miss Boro battle

Chelsea are waiting for fitness reports on left-back Wayne Bridge and midfielder Michael Ballack ahead of the home clash with Middlesbrough.

Both players collected thigh injuries on international duty with England and Germany respectively but Khalid Boulahrouz (knee) may be fit and Chelsea also welcome back captain John Terry.

Dutch winger Arjen Robben could return after being sidelined with an ankle injury. Ashley Cole (knee) and Joe Cole (foot) are out.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Terry, Carvalho, Essien, Makelele, Lampard, Obi, Diarra, Morais, Ballack, Bridge, Drogba, Shevchenko, Wright-Phillips, Kalou.

Ultimate10002000

10-02-2007, 08:38 PM

Drogba on top of his game

Didier Drogba has rediscovered the form that shot him to the top of Europe with Marseille and in turn has kept Chelsea's League dream alive.

Chelsea chances of increasing their unbeaten home run to 58 will largely depend on the form of top scorer Didier Drogba.

He has already scored 23 goals in all competitions for the Blues this season and is equal top with Ronaldo in the chase for the coveted 'Golden Boot' award.

Drogba has been in exceptional form all season for Chelsea and the Ivorian ace insists he's never been better.

Drogba declared: "This is the best form of my career. Every time I go on to the pitch I think I'll score.

"I have to believe for the whole game. It is easy to give up if things are not going well but I never give up.

"When I was playing in the second division in France, I always dreamed about becoming the best striker in the world. Now I am one of the best, it's amazing. It shows how much and how quickly I have improved.

"I want to win everything this season. I want to be one of the first ever players to win four major trophies.

"The Champions League is huge and if you win the Premiership you are the boss of England."

Drogba's goal in a 1-0 friendly win over Guinea in midweek was his 17th for Ivory Coast while a Chelsea player.

That total makes the striker Chelsea's all-time international top scorer, moving clear of the 16 scored by England's Jimmy Greaves when he was at the club.

Ultimate10002000

10-02-2007, 08:38 PM

'Threats' forced me to play - Mikel

John Obi Mikel says threats made against his family forced him to play for Nigeria this week against the wishes of Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.

The 19-year-old said he was in "severe pain" following a 75-minute appearance for Chelsea in their 1-0 win at Charlton last weekend, and was advised by Stamford Bridge doctors not play for the Africans on Tuesday.

However, Mikel went against his club's advice to last the full 90 minutes as Nigeria crashed 4-1 to Ghana at Griffin Park.

Mourinho was reported to be furious with his participation in the match, and the Premiership champions have complained to FIFA as a result, but the teenager insists he was left with no choice.

"Nigerian fans were threatening my family back home," he told The Sun. "They believe I have started picking the games I play for my country.

"People are still angry that I didn't play in Lesotho for the 2008 African Championship qualifier in October.

"Only a few people know what I have been through at home in the past due to this situation. It was just too much for me to handle or control.

"It's a shame that things turned out this way but only God knows what would have happened to my family if I had stayed away from this game."

The controversial midfielder is now most concerned with salvaging an already strained relationship with the Portuguese - who dropped the player earlier this season after questioning his attitude.

He added: "Was Jose Mourinho angry with me for playing? Definitely. He was totally disappointed in me but I just hope I can explain things to him and then we'll see what happens.

"Hopefully he will understand what I have been through and the severe pressure I was put under.

"There was just too much pressure from the Nigerian football officials and, even though I tried to explain things to them, they refused to hear me out."

makirri

11-02-2007, 01:02 AM

wee an emphatic victory over bogey team.
drogba race away in top scorer chart.
damn sctv should show this instead of the boring manure game. almost zzzzzzz. :s27:

ceLsius

11-02-2007, 01:18 AM

Wootz..... good win for Chelsea even though Carvalho didn't play. Another clean sheet.

Waybe Bridge back, Robben bacl, Terry back. :D

fucmudogs

11-02-2007, 01:27 AM

Damm, always someone got injury..... it's amazing how chelsea can still stay in the title race!

makirri

11-02-2007, 01:51 AM

robben back made a difference. :D

ballack out helps. Jose can put younger stronger players back to last 2 seasons stronghold tactics.

pity drop 4 pts during JT first absence.

next up for CFC to lift the league cup. ;)

Ultimate10002000

11-02-2007, 09:19 AM

Chelsea keep up Prem pursuit

Chelsea maintained their pursuit of Manchester United with a 3-0 home win over Middlesbrough to stay six points behind the Premiership leaders.

A brace from Didier Drogba, taking his tally for the season to 25, and an own goal from Boro's Abel Xavier kept Chelsea in touch with United at the Premiership summit.

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho will be more than content with the deficit as he knows United still have to visit Stamford Bridge in April.

The win over Middlesbrough was Chelsea's fifth consecutive success since they lost to Liverpool last month - scoring 14 goals and conceding none in the process.

It took Chelsea just six minutes to carve open the Middlesbrough defence when Frank Lampard's stunning pass set up Drogba.

The Ivorian sent a thunderous volley just wide of the target and a minute later he again went close when Middlesbrough's defence failed to clear a loose ball.

This time though he sent a low left-foot drive just wide of Mark Schwarzer's right-hand upright.

But it was Gareth Southgate's side who were guilty of squandering the best chance when Mark Viduka headed wide from a cross by Stewart Downing in the 12th minute.

Middlesbrough went into the game unbeaten in 2007 and they showed enough in attack to worry the champions.

Yakubu did well to spring Chelsea's offside trap but he failed to deliver a telling cross as the home defence scrambled back to recover the situation.

Lampard, whose own future at the club continues to come under the spotlight, was at the heart of all Chelsea's best moves but even he could not deliver an opening strike when presented with a free-kick opportunity 25 yards out.

In the 31st minute it was the turn of Salomon Kalou to try his luck when a nice dummy from Drogba gave him the chance to run at the Boro defence.

The Ivorian stepped inside Andrew Davies to engineer a clear shooting opportunity but despite trying to curl his effort into the top corner it missed the target by some distance.

In the 34th minute a challenge by Drogba on Emanuel Pogatetz sparked an ugly touchline confrontation between Mourinho and Boro boss Southgate.

The Chelsea coach had to be kept apart from Southgate by the fourth official has he pressed his finger to his lips to indicate he was unhappy with the Boro manager's verbal onslaught to referee Chris Foy.

Mourinho then urged Southgate to sit down in the dugout instead of standing in the technical area.

Chelsea were handed a great chance to open the scoring when George Boateng hauled down Lassana Diarra on the edge of the penalty area and they made Boro pay.

The free-kick, in a central position, provided Drogba with the perfect opportunity to curl a low drive into the bottom corner of the net for his 24th goal of the season.

In the 48th minute Julio Arca cleared off the line when Andriy Shevchenko met a corner from Lampard and his glancing header was set for the top corner until the Middlesbrough defender intervened.

Three minutes later though Chelsea had a lucky escape when Andrew Taylor's cross swerved towards the far post, eluded Blues keeper Petr Cech and cannoned to safety off the crossbar.

But Middlesbrough still possessed the capacity to hurt Chelsea and Yakubu came close in the 59th minute when he got on the end of a quick counter-attack by the visitors.

Downing's break down the right-flank caught Chelsea on the hop and his ball into Yakubu allowed the Boro striker the chance to fire just over the crossbar.

In the 65th minute Chelsea opted to replace the injured Diarra with Dutch winger Arjen Robben for his first appearance since injuring ankle ligaments in the defeat by Liverpool at Anfield.

It took Robben just four touches to help put Chelsea further in front a minute later when his run and shot from the right flank was deflected into his own net by Boro defender Xavier.

But Drogba was not finished yet and the Ivory Coast striker completed the scoring in the 82nd minute when another free-kick was deflected over Schwarzer and into the top corner.

Ultimate10002000

11-02-2007, 09:20 AM

Good a great win for Chelsea. Hopefully Man U will drop points soon.

ceLsius

11-02-2007, 01:26 PM

Next match against Blackpool or Norwich should be simple for us at Stamford Bridge. After that tough matches against Porto in CL and Arsenal for EPL.

Ultimate10002000

12-02-2007, 09:38 AM

Jose: Blues must keep winning

Jose Mourinho watched his Chelsea side hand Middlesbrough their first defeat of 2007 before jetting off to spend a few days in the sun.

The Premiership champions made it five wins on the trot in all competitions, two goals from top scorer Didier Drogba, who took his tally for the season to 25, and an own goal from Abel Xavier keeping them six points behind Manchester United at the top of the table.

The Blues can now forget about the league until next month as they concentrate on the FA Cup, the Champions League and the Carling Cup.

Mourinho had already made it clear before the game that Chelsea must keep up the pressure on United and results dictated that the status quo remained.

Mourinho said: "I wanted Chelsea to win and win and win and, in the main, that is what we have done. Now we must keep on doing it.

"Credit to Manchester United, they are doing it too this season. We are in a battle. We cannot afford not to keep on winning, neither can they. We are enjoying it. To go on enjoying it, we must keep on winning. It is a simple philosophy."

Chelsea made it look simple against Boro and Mourinho's number two Steve Clarke echoed his manager's assessment after remaining unbeaten for the 58th consecutive match at Stamford Bridge.

Clarke said: "We had a difficult first half, with both teams not playing at their very best.

"It was a great time for us to score the goal, just before half-time. It made the second half a lot easier for us.

"We are looking stronger and we are getting all our players back. One or two of them have niggling little injuries but only Joe Cole is a long-term injury.

"Didier deserves all the praise he gets. Not just for the goals, although that's what catches the attention of people, but for the work that he does for the team.

"We are not worried we don't play in the league until next month now. We have got three great cup matches coming up and we are looking forward to keeping the winning run going.

"We feel we have got a good momentum going now and we want to keep it until the end of the season."

Chelsea were always in control and welcomed back captain John Terry from the start and substitute Arjen Robben from injury.

Drogba put them in control on the stroke of half-time with a curling free-kick from the edge of the penalty area and Robben's introduction in the second half led to a second goal when his shot was deflected into the net own net by Xavier.

Drogba rounded off the scoring eight minutes from time when another free-kick ricocheted off Boro's defensive wall and over Mark Schwarzer.

Boro boss Gareth Southgate had no complaints, not even about a first-half touchline spat with Mourinho.

Southgate said: "Drogba's goal on the stroke of half-time was the turning point of the game. We would have been good value to have gone in level.

"We thought we had the best chance of the first half with Mark Viduka's header. But we should have dealt with the ball before we gave away the free-kick that led to their goal.

"That was disappointing and it knocked the belief out of us a little bit. We gave a decent account of ourselves but not as well as we have been playing.

"The recent run we've had has been fantastic and the players have given me everything.

"We were up against a very good side. It was a tall order to come here and try and continue that run.

"You know it is not going to be your day when you concede right on half-time and have two deflections in the second half. But they were the better team on the day and deserved it."

Southgate was told to sit down and be quiet by Mourinho after the Boro boss voiced his opinion to referee Chris Foy about a tackle by Drogba on Emanuel Pogatetz.

But Southgate countered: "Apparently, I am not allowed to give an opinion on a decision. I think it's for me to fight the corner of my team and players.

"I am entitled to speak my mind if I want to and Jose didn't agree with that.

"But what goes on during the game has no bearing afterwards. I've got a lot of respect for the guy and he's been a breath of fresh air to the league.

"I am just learning my trade but will fight my corner if I have to."

Ultimate10002000

12-02-2007, 09:39 AM

Hiddink: Blues job is not for me

Guus Hiddink has insisted he would not be interested in becoming Chelsea manager at the end of the season.

There has been fevered speculation in recent months that current Blues boss Jose Mourinho might quit Stamford Bridge this summer after three years in charge of the Premiership champions.

Dutchman Hiddink has emerged as a front-runner for the position should it become available, due to his impeccable track record with the likes of PSV Eindhoven and Holland and his links to club owner Roman Abramovich - who is thought to have helped secure Hiddink in his current role as manager of Russia.

The 60-year-old is currently being investigated in his homeland for alleged tax evasion, and he insists taking the reins in west London is far from his mind at present.

"I have definitely not spoken to Roman Abramovich about moving to Chelsea this summer," he said in The Mail on Sunday.

"I am coach of the Russian national team and will continue in that job until the summer of 2008.

"I am satisfied with my current job and very busy at the moment. I have other things to concentrate on.

"How do you think it would go down if I were to leave this job after a year and join Chelsea?"

Ultimate10002000

12-02-2007, 09:40 AM

I really hope Mourinho will not decide to leave Chelsea.

Ultimate10002000

12-02-2007, 09:43 AM

Arjen feels robbed by injury woe

Dutch winger Arjen Robben is desperate to put his bad luck behind him and inspire Chelsea to success in four major competitions this season.

Robben's season has been plagued by calf, hamstring and ankle ligament injuries but he made an instant impact after coming on as a substitute in Chelsea's comfortable victory over Middlesbrough.

The champions were already leading 1-0 courtesy of Didier Drogba's goal on the stroke of half-time when Robben was introduced into the action in the 65th minute.

Sixty seconds and four touches later, Robben had helped Chelsea double their lead when his shot was deflected into his own net by Boro's Abel Xavier.

Now the injury-plagued Dutchman is hoping to shake off his woes for good and have a consistent run-in as Chelsea chase glory in the FA Cup, Carling Cup, Premiership and Champions League.

Coach Jose Mourinho's side can forget about the league until next month after victory over Boro helped them to keep the pressure on Manchester United at the top.

Next up is an FA Cup fifth-round tie against Norwich or Blackpool, a return to Jose Mourinho's old side Porto in the last 16 of the Champions League and a Carling Cup final showdown against Arsenal and the Dutch winger cannot wait to throw off his injury-stricken tag.

Even coach Mourinho associates an injury to Robben as being followed by a long spell on the sidelines but the Dutchman insists nobody is more frustrated than him.

Robben said: "I can imagine people seeing me playing well one week and then out again, people thinking 'he's always injured' and I can assure them there's only one person the most frustrated and that's myself.

"I always work hard to come back as quickly as possible. I always get good support when I do, so that continually keeps me going.

"The fans have been good for me so I want to give them something back. They must be tired of this as well.

"I need to get a lot of games under my belt, play consecutively a lot of matches. I can do a lot of things for the team."

Robben's most recent injury was sustained against Liverpool last month and it could not have come at a worse time for the winger.

Robben added: "I have looked at the Liverpool injury in slow motion but there was nothing I could do.

"I was out for two or so weeks over Christmas, came back in form against Wigan and then at Liverpool went up for a header and landed very hard.

"It feels like I've had no luck - it's hard. I've had to come back again. Sometimes it is very difficult, you get frustrated, but when you're getting back to training, it is important to stay as positive as you can."

Ultimate10002000

13-02-2007, 07:08 PM

Terry banking on Red Devils slip-up

Chelsea captain John Terry is absolutely certain that Manchester United will drop enough points to give them a chance in the title race.

United have dropped just 15 points all season but Terry is sure they will slip up between now and the end of the season.

Chelsea are currently six points behind the leaders and that gap could increase to 12 points by the time the Blues play again.

"Manchester United have been different class this year and fair play to them for that," said Terry. "They're playing very well and their key players are all at the top of their form.

"But they haven't been under pressure like this for a few years and it's written in the rules that people are going to drop points sooner or later.

"Last season we dropped a few points and they closed the gap a bit towards the end and we're hoping for the same thing this time.

"This is where we really kick in. We're turning the corner into the home straight and it's just the two of us now battling it out.

"They keep winning, but we're putting the pressure on them and sooner or later they're going to drop points.

"We need to worry about ourselves. There's no point worrying what United are doing and then dropping points ourselves.

"They've got some tough fixtures coming up, so we need to keep winning our games and get as many points on the board as possible."

Chelsea have won four of their last five Premiership games, conceding just two goals in the process.

Ultimate10002000

13-02-2007, 07:09 PM

Lamps deserves top dollar - Agent

Frank Lampard's agent believes the England midfielder has become "indispensable" to Chelsea - and any new contract should reflect that.

Steve Kutner has admitted Lampard is aware of Article 17 of FIFA's transfer regulations, under which players can unilaterally cancel their contracts after a 'protected period' expires, if they pay 'buy-out' compensation to their clubs, based on wages.

The three-year protection period on Lampard's current five-year deal runs out this summer, so he could theoretically leave then in exchange for two years' wages.

However, Kutner told The Independent that his client wants to sign a new deal at Chelsea, and that as things stand, "he's not intending to invoke the clause [Article 17]".

He added: "We know about the rule, and I've talked to Peter Kenyon [Chelsea's chief executive] about what Frank's worth to Chelsea, and what he's worth to other clubs.

"The fact of the matter is that Frank's about as indispensable to Chelsea as anyone, not just creating goals and scoring them, but as a marketing icon. His shirt sales outstrip any other player by four to one."

Scotland defender Andy Webster became the first player to invoke Article 17 to move from Hearts to Wigan last summer.

Ultimate10002000

14-02-2007, 07:25 PM

Ballack: No drama over United lead

Michael Ballack is confident Chelsea will maintain the pressure on Manchester United when they return to action after a break for cup matches.

The defending champions trail United by six points at present - but could be a massive 12 points behind if the Red Devils take maximum points while the Blues are in cup action.

"We're six points behind, but it is not a drama," Ballack told Sky Sports News. "We had little problems with injuries. But now players are coming back and we have a very strong team."

One of the players returning from injury is captain John Terry, who has admitted his frustration at being sidelined with a back problem which then affected his calf.

However, the 26-year-old is grateful for being allowed to be part of the first-team squad, despite not being able to play.

He told Chelsea TV: "Sometimes I was a little bit down, and that did me the world of good."

Ultimate10002000

14-02-2007, 07:26 PM

Blues ace Ballack 'back in days'

Chelsea star Michael Ballack is expected to recover from his thigh strain in "days rather than weeks" after picking up the injury with Germany.

The 30-year-old was injured during the Germans' clash against Switzerland last week but a timescale of recovery has only just been established.

"It's not a major injury, it's a thigh strain which will recover in days rather than weeks," said club doctor Bryan English, who expects Ballack to return in the next week.

Meanwhile, England international Joe Cole has stepped up his rehabilitation on his injured foot which has disrupted his season, in which he has only featured 11 times for the Premiership champions.

"He's got the protective boot off and is now able to start weight bearing exercises," said English. "He will continue to use his crutches, but less and less."

Full-back Ashley Cole is expected to return before the end of the season but has been in a knee brace following the injury sustained against Blackburn.

"That will come off at the end of this week and then he will start his first stage of rehabilitation," added English.

hammarmen07

15-02-2007, 12:49 AM

Ultimate10002000

15-02-2007, 05:43 PM

London calling for Paris

Chelsea will have another look at Paris Cowan-Hall after taking the youngster on trial for a second time this season.

The 16-year-old Rushden & Diamonds forward, who has also had a trial with Manchester United, will be at Stamford Bridge for a week after spending time there before Christmas.

A statement on the official website of the Nationwide Conference club read: "He is one of a number of promising youngsters at the club and a testament to all the hard work that goes on behind the scenes in the youth department."

Ultimate10002000

15-02-2007, 05:44 PM

Cole biding time over Blues return

Joe Cole is refusing to put a date on his return from his foot injury - but insists he will play for Chelsea before the end of the season.

Cole is determined to return from his injury agony and help the Blues challenge on four fronts this season.

The 25-year-old suffered knee problems earlier in the season and has only played in 12 games in the campaign - 11 for Chelsea and once for England - as Jose Mourinho's squad has been hit by injuries.

Skipper John Terry has only just returned after a back injury which led to a loss of power in his calf, and Cole wants to take his time over a comeback.

"Everything is going to plan and, providing there are no setbacks, I will be back this season," said Cole.

"I don't want to put any date on it because I saw what happened with John Terry. I am working hard and doing everything I am told.

"I am really looking forward to coming back at the important end of the season and helping us win some trophies."

Cole no longer requires a protective boot and is set to start "weight-bearing exercises" but is still using crutches.

He added in the London Evening Standard: "As a player you have a certain amount of games in you and what I am missing now I believe I will get back in my 30s, hopefully still at Chelsea and winning trophies."

Ultimate10002000

15-02-2007, 05:44 PM

Drogba targeting all four trophies

Didier Drogba is determined to fire Chelsea to all four trophies this season and help himself to the coveted 'Golden Boot' along the way.

Drogba's inspirational form, which has seen him smash 25 goals so far this season, has already helped him to beat the boo-boys who almost drove him out of England.

The former Marseille man was forced to reconsider his future in the Premiership when he was accused of using his hand to score against Manchester City as well as being labelled a serial 'diver' last season.

Drogba now wants to help Chelsea to an unprecedented four trophies this term and also has his eye on the award for finishing Europe's top scorer.

The Carling Cup final against Arsenal will provide the Ivory Coast international with another glorious occasion to demonstrate the goalscoring prowess that has made him one of the most feared forwards in the game.

The controversy that dogged him last season has disappeared and it is his striking exploits that are now gaining him plaudits he fully deserves.

Drogba's 77th-minute winner in his country's 1-0 friendly success over Guinea last week was his 17th for Ivory Coast as a Chelsea player, making him the club's all-time international top scorer, moving clear of the 16 scored by England legend Jimmy Greaves while at Stamford Bridge.

Drogba said: "Of course I can win the Golden Boot. But as much as I'd love to be the top scorer, it would mean nothing if Chelsea don't win the league. I'd like to win the Premiership and the Golden Boot.

"I've scored some great goals this year. If I had to pick my best, I'd say it was the one at Everton. It was a dramatic last-minute goal and a very important one because we came from behind to win."

It is a long way from the days when he was branded one of the biggest cheats in the game - even if he did not always understand the reasons why.

Drogba said: "I can understand if they are unhappy when I don't play well.

"Wherever I play, I always give everything for my team, and I always have a lot of respect for my shirt and my club.

"I handled the ball [against City] but this is part of the game. I try to score and, if the referee sees the handball, there is a restart."

Now he is the talk of west London and desperate to bring more glory to the club and Jose Mourinho, whose own future is the subject of continual speculation.

But, while rumours persist Mourinho will quit Stamford Bridge at the end of the season, Drogba is staying put. He signed a new contract earlier this season, which ties the striker to Chelsea for a further three years.

Drogba said: "I regard the new contract with Chelsea as reward for hard work - but I also want to repay the club for keeping the faith.

"We want to win all four trophies this season and we believe we have the ability to do it.

"At the moment, we are taking things as they come and that is working for us. But we've dominated English football for the last few years and now we want to set new records.

"At 28, I am definitely thinking of ending my career at Chelsea - if that's what the fans want to hear. But I will play the game until I can no longer push myself.

"At one time, I did think about leaving the club because of many reasons.

"But I think I've come to stay in England and I hope that will end all the confusion of the past.

"As a professional, I've always put my own needs and goals above anything else. But I decided to stay at Chelsea because of the encouragement I've received from our manager."

He added: "I am not playing well just because I wanted to sign a new contract. I am playing well because I feel good and I am happy to train with my friends.

"I want to say thank you to Jose for believing in me since the beginning and now we will be together for a long time. This is the best form of my career.

"I am happy because, when I came here, it wasn't easy for me to say I would be signing a new contract with Chelsea because everybody knows the first year was difficult. The second one was okay, but I knew I could do better."

Ultimate10002000

15-02-2007, 05:46 PM

Yeah Drogba is getting better and better. But hope Chelsea will not start to rely on him for goals. Other players should work harder too.

Ultimate10002000

17-02-2007, 11:17 AM

Cole may return in three weeks

Chelsea and England defender Ashley Cole is staying upbeat and hopes to end his current injury exile "in the next few weeks".

The left-back was injured during his team's Premiership clash with Blackburn at Stamford Bridge on January 31.

He twisted his left knee - and it was feared he may be ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, until he was diagnosed with posterior cruciate ligament damage.

The left-back now believes he will be back in action in around three weeks.

He explained: "I didn't rip the cruciate which is a good thing - if I did that is maybe me out for eight or nine months - but with this I'm looking at six to eight weeks.

"I'm getting stronger now and working hard and hopefully I'll be back in the next few weeks."

Ultimate10002000

17-02-2007, 11:17 AM

Surface is no leveller - Clarke

Chelsea assistant manager Steve Clarke denies the state of the Stamford Bridge pitch improves Norwich's hopes of an FA Cup upset on Saturday.

The new surface was laid in December but has deteriorated into such a poor state that it will be replaced after this weekend's fifth-round clash with the Canaries.

Boss Jose Mourinho described the pitch as "the new enemy", following his team's 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, and complained that it makes it difficult to play "good and fast" football.

But Clarke denies Norwich, who are struggling in the Championship, will benefit from the poor surface.

"The pitch has been poor since December when we changed it. We're having to change it again and we hope this time it will be better," he said.

"But it hasn't affected our performances at home. The pitch is poor - but it's not a leveller for Norwich.

"We played on poor pitches against Wycombe and Forest. If you have the class it should be enough."

Chelsea have been given a kind draw in the FA Cup so far, thrashing Macclesfield and Nottingham Forest on home soil in previous rounds.

But while playing against teams from lower divisions has its benefits, Clarke - who is a friend of Norwich boss and fellow Scot Peter Grant - knows league form can be meaningless in a cup tie.

"The banana skin aspect comes with the territory. We're comfortable being favourites," he said.

"We understand it's a big day for Norwich and their supporters. Their players will be motivated. We must match that if we want to go through.

"Their manager Peter Grant is a passionate fella who loves the game. I know him quite well. We were a similar age and had some good runs - he played for Celtic and I played for St Mirren.

"He's a good fella, and I'm glad he's got the Norwich job. He's always been a leader and talker and not shy to give his opinion."

Chelsea were winners of the last FA Cup final at Wembley, beating Aston Villa 1-0 in 2000, and Clarke admits the knowledge this year's showpiece will be staged at the newly-redeveloped stadium adds spice to the competition.

"The fact it's back at Wembley gives everybody an extra edge to make the final," he said.

"The first final at the new Wembley will be a great occasion, as was the last one.

"We were fortunate to be the winning side in that final, and it would be nice to go back there."

Ultimate10002000

17-02-2007, 11:20 AM

Roman returns for crunch Jose talks

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has returned to London for the first time in a month to hold reconciliation talks with manager Jose Mourinho.

Abramovich has missed six consecutive matches since rowing with Mourinho after the victory over Wigan on January 13.

According to The Times, Abramovich stormed out of an argument with Mourinho, who had demanded a new striker for the Premiership run-in, and while chief executive Peter Kenyon managed to repair some of the damage, the pair have had no contact since.

Although business commitments elsewhere have been cited as the reason behind the Russian's absence, it has been reported that Abramovich hates confrontation - which does not mix well with the 'fiery Mourinho'.

Abramovich's disappearing act has prompted speculation that his interest in the club is on the wane.

But now Abramovich is keen to attend the majority of games until the end of the season even if the 'mutual distrust' with Mourinho continues. Although it would suit both parties to agree to a marriage of convenience, a summer divorce remains highly probable.

Ultimate10002000

17-02-2007, 11:23 AM

Blues deny pricing claims

Chelsea have denied reports that the extra money from TV revenue will be used to give pay rises to players rather than to reduce ticket prices.

Each Premiership club will get a minimum £30million when the new television deal comes into force next season, with the champions set to pocket £50million.

It has been claimed that Blues chief executive Peter Kenyon, speaking at a fans forum, had refused to earmark the money to cut the cost of tickets.

But a statement issued by Chelsea insisted no decision had been made over next year's price policy.

The statement read: "The reports this morning are a total misinterpretation of what was said in the fans forum.

"No decision has yet been made over ticket prices for next season and Chelsea representatives were very clear on this from the outset.

"Any suggestion to the contrary is totally wrong."

Meanwhile, Chelsea have launched the first football-branded channel on internet site YouTube.

The channel will include Chelsea news, archive footage and contributions from fans.

Kenyon said: "We are delighted to work with YouTube.

"Chelsea is the first football club to move into what is clearly one of the fastest growing new media platforms.

"This will allow us to offer our fans exciting Chelsea content in a very unique way, as well as an opportunity to reach a whole new audience."

Ultimate10002000

17-02-2007, 11:24 AM

Carvalho set to face Canaries

Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho is set to return for Saturday's FA Cup fifth-round clash against Norwich at Stamford Bridge.

Carvalho missed Saturday's 3-0 victory over Middlesbrough with a fever but has made a full recovery and should start alongside skipper John Terry.

Mikel John Obi returns to the squad after overcoming a thigh problem but Ashley Cole (knee), Joe Cole (foot) and Michael Ballack (thigh) are unavailable.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Terry, Carvalho, Essien, Makelele, Lampard, Obi, Diarra, Morais, Ballack, Bridge, Drogba, Shevchenko, Wright-Phillips, Kalou.

ceLsius

17-02-2007, 11:43 AM

Wootz..... our players are returning back. Now just 3 on the sidelines. :s12:

ceLsius

18-02-2007, 01:02 AM

Easy 4-0 thumping again and drogba with his 26th goal this season. Amazing :D

Ultimate10002000

18-02-2007, 11:09 AM

Bullish Blues clip Canaries' wings

Chelsea eased their way into the FA Cup quarter-finals as Championship outfit Norwich were brushed aside 4-0 at Stamford Bridge.

It was the perfect start to an important week for the Premiership champions, who face Porto in the Champions League on Wednesday and Arsenal in the final of the Carling Cup next Sunday.

Shaun Wright-Phillips put them ahead in the 38th minute and top scorer Didier Drogba made it two six minutes after the break.

The scoring was completed with two goals in the last minute from substitutes Michael Essien and Andriy Shevchenko.

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho opted to rest a number of his first-team regulars in preparation for their trip to Portugal but their strength in depth proved too much for Championship side Norwich.

Mourinho is adamant that he must rotate his squad if they are to remain on course for glory in all four major competitions.

Mourinho said: "Of course we need rotation if we are to try to be successful in as many games and tournaments as possible.

"So far this season we have had much less rotation than we might have hoped, but now we have the players back, we have to do it."

Chelsea almost drew first blood as early as the ninth minute when Frank Lampard was fouled by Dickson Etuhu 25 yards out.

The England international picked himself up to fire in a long-range free-kick which Norwich goalkeeper David Marshall did well to push to safety.

Moments later Marshall required lengthy treatment after appearing to hurt his ankle while trying to deal with a far-post cross from Arjen Robben. He was replaced in the 11th minute by substitute goalkeeper Paul Gallagher.

A prolonged spell of pressure should have put Norwich one up in the 16th minute when Dickson Etutu's 20-yard shot beat Petr Cech only to rebound off the foot of the right-hand upright.

The loose ball fell straight to the feet of the lurking Lee Croft just into the penalty area and a goal looked certain with Cech still on the floor.

But the City player's goalbound effort was cleared by the retreating Khalid Boulahrouz.

Norwich continued to press forward and Darren Huckerby just failed to get to a loose ball inside the six-yard box in the 26th minute after Dion Dublin's height had caused panic in the Chelsea defence.

It was another warning for the Premiership side, who hit back immediately with a long-range drive from Robben that Paul Gallagher did well to keep out.

On the half-hour, the substitute keeper was equal to the task again as he punched away a swerving drive from Lampard.

But Chelsea finally broke the deadlock in the 38th minute. Lampard's initial shot was blocked on the edge of the penalty area by Andy Hughes and the ball fell to the waiting Wright-Phillips.

The England winger despatched a swerving shot off into the roof of the net to give Mourinho's men the lead against the run of play.

But Chelsea's injury jinx struck again in the 43rd minute when Boulahrouz damaged his shoulder and was replaced by Michael Essien.

But it did not take long for Chelsea to increase their lead after the interval and Drogba put them two up in the 51st minute with his 26th goal of the season.

A corner by Lampard cannoned off the legs of the unfortunate Chris Brown into the path of Drogba on the edge of the six-yard box and even though the Ivorian had his back to the goal, he swivelled and volleyed home in one movement.

Drogba, his job done, was removed and replaced by Salomon Kalou in the 56th minute.

City had lost the verve they displayed so admirably in the opening 45 minutes and Chelsea were now in total command.

In the 59th minute Kalou was brought down on the edge of the penalty area but Lampard's free-kick was inches the wrong side of the Norwich crossbar.

In the 78th minute Norwich twice went close through Jason Shackell and Andy Hughes but Chelsea kept their visitors at bay thanks to some fine goalkeeping from Cech.

Chelsea made it three in the last minute when substitute Shevchenko set up Essien and the Ghanaian midfielder applied the finish. Seconds later Shevchenko made it four to complete a comfortable afternoon for for the Blues.

Ultimate10002000

18-02-2007, 11:10 AM

Carvalho looks to Lady Luck date

Star defender Ricardo Carvalho believes luck will play a crucial role in Chelsea's bid for Champions League glory this season.

Chelsea face Porto over two legs and Carvalho, who won the competition with the Portuguese club before arriving at Stamford Bridge, knows there is no margin for error in the last 16.

"We've done well so far but we are now through to the knockout stage, where it is much easier to be eliminated," he said.

"You still play each team twice, as you do in the group stage, but now you have to be on top of your game over both legs.

"It's no good playing one good game and one not so good, like you can probably afford to do in the group stage. If that happens now, we'll go out.

"To win the Champions League, we will need to be at our absolute best from now on - and we will need a bit of luck on our side as well."

Victory at the Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday night would see Chelsea put one foot into the quarter-finals.

The fact Carvalho, manager Jose Mourinho and defender Paulo Ferreira all left Porto for the Blues in 2004 adds spice to a potentially tricky encounter against the Portuguese league leaders.

Carvalho, 28, admits he is fortunate to have won the Champions League once already and knows a second European crown would be a remarkable achievement.

"When I won the Champions league with Porto I was young so of course I want to win it again with Chelsea," he said.

"Some players will play nine or 10 years at the top level and never win the Champions League.

"If I can win it for a second time, it will be fantastic."

Chelsea will benefit from the return to fitness of defenders John Terry, Wayne Bridge and Khalid Boulahrouz while Carvalho has overcome a recent bout of fever.

With a near-full complement of defenders to select from, Chelsea will be able to start with Michael Essien in midfield and assistant manager Steve Clarke highlighted the Ghana star's importance to the team.

"Michael Essien is a great player. He's proved his versatility, he can play very well in any position. His preferred position is midfield," he said.

"We're happy when we have him in there because he brings an extra dimension to the team. But wherever he plays he gives 100 per cent to the cause."

Ultimate10002000

18-02-2007, 11:11 AM

Clarke: Blues duo getting on fine

Chelsea number two Steve Clarke has denied a rift has opened between manager Jose Mourinho and owner Roman Abramovich.

Clarke revealed Abramovich will end his six-match absence from Stamford Bridge by attending Saturday afternoon's FA Cup fifth-round tie against Norwich.

Mourinho reportedly had an argument with Abramovich after last month's 4-0 victory over Wigan.

The Russian billionaire's ensuing failure to attend any of Chelsea's next six games intensified speculation over his alleged spat with Mourinho and fuelled suggestions he was losing interest in the club.

But Clarke said: "Roman has been on business - he's very busy and has had other things to do.

"He's back on Saturday and we're looking forward to seeing him. There's no question he's committed to Chelsea. He's proven that ever since taking over.

"He doesn't have to prove anything else. It's good when you see him with and around the team. He enjoys being with the players and coaching staff.

"It will be good for the atmosphere around the club and maybe the speculation over why he's not there will stop.

"He's been in Russia taking care of business and, if you're worth that amount of money, it's understandable when he has matters to take care of."

Clarke's contract expires at the end of the season and the former Blues defender is in no hurry to begin negotiations over a new deal.

He said: "It's not difficult when I see speculation about other coaches being brought in.

"I focus on my job. I'm a level-headed fellow and the speculation doesn't affect me. I've been at this club for 18 out of the last 20 years.

"I see no reason why they would want to get rid of me. I sleep very well at night and look forward to the next day of work.

"I haven't spoken to Jose at all about my contract. Contracts are a personal thing for me and it's the same for the boss."

Ultimate10002000

18-02-2007, 11:11 AM

Holloway ridicules Gosling speculation

Plymouth Argyle manager Ian Holloway has slammed speculation linking midfield starlet Dan Gosling with a move to Chelsea.

One report claimed Gosling could be the key to Chelsea's right-back problem but Holloway has dismissed the rumours out of hand.

"What a crock of potatoes that was," he told the Plymouth Herald. "Some of these people are a disgrace. They just sit at their desk and start a rumour.

"Obviously, Chelsea will be watching (loan signing) Scott Sinclair play for us and I thought Danny Gosling was absolutely outstanding at Wolves the other week.

"I would be surprised if they didn't get to hear about him. He's just 17 and he's playing in the Championship.

"I know he's good and I know he wants to be here so they can all just shove it. It's all speculation."

Ultimate10002000

18-02-2007, 11:12 AM

Boulahrouz blow for Chelsea

Chelsea defender Khalid Boulahrouz will be out "for some time" after dislocating his shoulder in the 4-0 FA Cup fifth-round win over Norwich.

Holland defender Boulahrouz was taken off two minutes before the interval in what was his first start since returning from a knee ligament injury.

A frustrated Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho admitted afterwards: "Boulahrouz has a dislocated shoulder so he will be out for some time.

"The only thing not positive was the Boulahrouz injury. If you can forget

that, the result was good and we are in the quarter-finals."

Ultimate10002000

18-02-2007, 11:12 AM

Ok this was a great win for Chelsea but too bad one player was injured in the process.

ceLsius

18-02-2007, 11:15 AM

Ok this was a great win for Chelsea but too bad one player was injured in the process.

Yeah, that's the only blemish to the fine win. Petr Cech make some remarkable saves, he got back his usual best before his injury. Shevchenko was bright, created the 3rd goal for Essien and score the 4th himself with header. =:p

your_father

18-02-2007, 11:20 AM

Yeah, that's the only blemish to the fine win. Petr Cech make some remarkable saves, he got back his usual best before his injury. Shevchenko was bright, created the 3rd goal for Essien and score the 4th himself with header. =:p
All hail Sheva the playmaker!, Goal scorer!

Ultimate10002000

19-02-2007, 10:57 AM

Johnson sees boss comparisons

Harry Redknapp and Jose Mourinho have a lot in common, according to Portsmouth's on-loan defender Glen Johnson.

The 22-year-old right-back is spending the season at Fratton Park before returning to Chelsea in the summer.

And he can see similarities between Pompey boss Redknapp and Blues counterpart Mourinho.

"I think there is in the way they both mingle with the players," Johnson said in Portsmouth's matchday programme.

"I'd say they are similar but obviously they are a bit different in the way that they approach the game."

Ultimate10002000

19-02-2007, 10:58 AM

Relieved Jose set for week ahead

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho admitted his side's 4-0 victory over Norwich in the FA Cup fifth round had been harsh on the battling Canaries.

But even the injury to Khalid Boulahrouz failed to dampen Mourinho's enthusiasm for the week ahead which sees his side face Porto in the Champions League and Arsenal in the final of the Carling Cup next Sunday.

Mourinho said: "The only thing not positive was the Boulahrouz injury. If you can forget that, the result was good and we are in the quarter-final.

"The confidence is still there and this week we have two finals. Porto is like a final and Arsenal is really a final.

"The result was a bit heavy for Norwich. They played well and gave us a difficult first half. To be fair I think we were a bit lucky to be winning 1-0 at half-time.

"In the second half, the second goal gave them no chance to react. After that we had a lot of chances and space and I could rest players and start thinking about the game on Wednesday.

"I thought before the game I could give some rest to some players so I left Ricardo Carvalho and Claude Makelele out and put some players on the bench.

"The first moment I thought the game was over, I took off Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard."

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich was back at Stamford Bridge for the first time in six games.

He would have been thrilled by a performance that was sparked by a goal from Shaun Wright-Phillips in the 38th minute.

Drogba added the second six minutes after the break with his 26th of the season and two goals in stoppage time from substitutes Michael Essien and Andriy Shevchenko, completed the rout.

But Mourinho was unconcerned whether or not the club's Russian owner was sitting in the stands.

He said: "I didn't see him, I was watching the game and doing my work. It is his club and he does not have to give explanations when he is not here.

"We work for him and this is his club. So when he is back, he comes back to his house. It is not our house. When he comes back to our dressing room he will be welcome."

The awful state of the Stamford Bridge pitch also vexed the Portuguese coach, who confirmed it will be torn up in time for the return leg with Porto in the Champions League - even offering to take up a shovel and help out if necessary.

"This was the last game for this pitch," said Mourinho. "Tomorrow it is taken up. I hope the next pitch is better for the game against Porto. The competition needs a proper pitch. We want a good pitch from now until the end of the season.

"We are disappointed with the pitch and I told people one or two months ago that the pitch was very bad. I have other things to do but if they need any help I am ready for it because we are desperate to get rid of this pitch."

Norwich boss Peter Grant was unhappy with a scoreline that hardly reflected the performance of his players.

Norwich lost goalkeeper David Marshall in the 11th minute after he turned his ankle on the controversial surface and they could have taken the lead when a shot from Dickson Etuhu hit the post.

Grant said: "It was very disappointing but I think the last two goals were down to tired legs.

"We deserved a lot more out of the game. I thought we produced a performance capable of winning the game. I think we had a go at them manfully, especially after losing our goalkeeper, hitting the post and having a shot cleared off the line, you think it is going to be one of those days.

"But the boys kept going and showed great attitude. We have to take this into our league form because we want to be playing at places like this week in, week out and the boys have proved they are capable of doing that.

"There was a lot of sand on the pitch and it is energy sapping. But we never got the just rewards for our efforts and general play. The final thing was missing and that was putting the ball in the back of the net and that was down to good goalkeeping at times and bad misses. "

He added: "I thought we were always in the game. The lads were brave but we just lacked that quality in front of goal. We are very disappointed with the result but the general play was excellent."

Ultimate10002000

19-02-2007, 10:58 AM

Shaun savouring Chelsea chance

Shaun Wright-Phillips insists he has finally found his feet at Chelsea as the Blues prepare for the most important week of the season so far.

Wright-Phillips was the subject of intense speculation about his future during last month's transfer window, with interest from both West Ham and his former club Manchester City.

But he is determined to realise all his ambitions with Chelsea and, with their Champions League clash with Porto on Wednesday followed by the Carling Cup final against Arsenal on Sunday, he has every chance.

Wright-Phillips declared: "I've settled in. I didn't think it would have taken me this long but it has.

"Like I said, I've kept my head down and got on with it. I set myself high targets from the start.

"I've never had to adjust them and won't stop until I get there. I believe now the things I used to do are coming more naturally, the way they used to do.

"I'm learning how to make an impact, make a chance in the time you're given.

"I am settled in the south completely and I see myself living here for the rest of my life.

"I've been working hard all year. I've been keeping my head down and finding my feet the longer I've been here."

While he maintains he has settled in off the pitch, he has also had to undergo a bit of rethink on it.

Wright-Phillips added: "At Manchester City I played in a certain way and at Chelsea I've had to play another way. The whole point is that I've learned.

"At City I played more or less out wide all the time and I got the ball all the time. If the players could see me they would get me the ball.

"There were just a few of us in the team who were always trying to create something out of nothing."

Chelsea's week could land them their first trophy of the season if they can overcome rivals Arsenal in what will be the first all-London League Cup final.

Captain John Terry came through his second game since back surgery against Norwich and is now relishing the prospect of playing Porto and Arsenal.

Terry said: "On Wednesday we must take a big step towards going through to the Champions League quarter-finals and next Sunday we must win the first trophy of the season.

"If we can put the first cup in the cabinet in our last game of February, we can happily cut our focus down to three competitions in March."

Manager Mourinho added: "It is a special period for us. The return of the Champions League gives us Porto with the chance to go into the last eight of Europe.

"Next weekend we are in Cardiff to face Arsenal and look to win the Carling Cup. These are top football matches. This is a period for a top football team to make the most of it. We can do it.

"My message to my players is let Porto worry about us. We are still competing in four competitions to be the winners, the only team to do so and that should not be taken lightly."

BroadBear

19-02-2007, 11:38 AM

All hail Sheva the playmaker!, Goal scorer!
Indeed a clone of celsius...

ceLsius

19-02-2007, 12:03 PM

Indeed a clone of celsius...

Don't waste time lah PM the admin if u think I'm one instead of being a loser here making false accusation. :s8:

your_father

19-02-2007, 12:05 PM

Indeed a clone of celsius...
Why don't U go back wif yr clone nicks like xavier/yourmother to the Arse-hole thread & entertain the guys there instead? :s13:

Ultimate10002000

20-02-2007, 07:20 PM

Wenger has warning for Blues

Arenal manager Arsene Wenger has warned Chelsea against the continued reliance on "artificial income".

The Premiership champions released figures for the year ended June 2006, revealing losses of £80.2milllion.

"It is viable because Chelsea do it. They have a super sponsor," said Wenger.

"With normal mathematics, minus 80 is minus 80. It's not on the surface, it is 80 miles below water - and to survive so deep is normally very difficult.

"But if you have a support, that allows them to do it and the rules allow them to do it.

"I have said many times that all the clubs should be balanced with their natural resources - that means they can only spend what they earn."

Arsenal are set to announce their interim results later this week, which will follow the club's move to their new 60,000-seater Emirates Stadium.

Wenger believes teams must rely only on self-generated income to ensure long-term stability.

"If we had had such an offer from someone we would not have turned it down," said the Arsenal boss.

"Chelsea are in a situation where the are lucky to have that kind of sponsorship. I can understand completely that they take advantage of it.

"But of course the only thing it does is raises two questions - is it right for any business, not only in football, to have that kind of artificial income? And secondly it makes a club dependent or reliant on only one man."

Chelsea's figures showed costs have been cut by 42.9%, which keeps the big-spending Stamford Bridge club on target to break even by 2009-10.

Wenger added: "I read somewhere that Abramovich wants to make the club more self-sufficient, which is in my opinion a fair view, that in the long term the club does not depend on his expenditure.

"But at the moment it is. So the club, to survive at this level depends on Abramovich, and that is it."

Arsenal face PSV Eindhoven in the knockout stages of the Champions League on Tuesday night.

Chelsea are reportedly set to enter into a deal to make the Dutch side their feeder club, and are said to be helping fund the transfer of Santos defender Alex by PSV.

Manchester United have a co-operation deal with Belgian club Antwerp, while the Gunners themselves formed a partnership with Beveren.

Any link-up between Chelsea and PSV - two clubs who both compete in the Champions League - would, though, clearly raise some issues.

Wenger commented: "You have to know the bottom of things to know what the connection really is.

"There seems to be one, but I do not know what kind of connection exists legally. The ownership of the players has to be clear.

"I am not suspicious about Chelsea, the concern has come out from the Dutch Football Federation."

Wenger added: "We had a connection with Beveren with one difference - that they do not play in the Champions League.

"Eindhoven do not play in the same league as Chelsea, but they play in the same competitions as them."

Ultimate10002000

20-02-2007, 07:20 PM

Buck: Business as usual at Blues

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck says Roman Abramovich is pleased with the club's financial progress and has not lost his enthusiasm for the club.

Abramovich, often seen in the stands at Chelsea matches, has missed games in the past month and there have been reports of a strained relationship with boss Jose Mourinho.

However, the Russian billionaire's absence has been due to his annual holiday in the Caribbean and his role as a governor of Chukotka, a province on the far eastern tip of Siberia.

"I can assure you that his enthusiasm has not waned one iota," said Buck.

"When he has been absent from matches, wherever he is, he tries to catch them on television and he is in constant touch with us.

"As far as we are concerned, it has been business as usual. He attended the match on Saturday and subsequent to business commitments, I would expect that he would be a general attendee at Chelsea matches in the future."

Abramovich has received positive news with the financial results of the year up to June 2006 revealing a £60million reduction of loss, even though the figure is still £80.2million.

The results mean there is still optimism of the club being self-sufficient by 2010, although Abramovich will remain the most important figure at the club until the target is met.

"From 2005 when we developed a five-year plan, Roman Abramovich was part of that process," Buck told the club website.

"He was supportive of that plan then and he is supportive of it now.

"He believes and understands that the five-year plan is aggressive. Although we, the management, believe we can meet it, it is not 100% certain.

"He understands the vagaries of business. He is very supportive of what we are doing and pleased with our progress."

Buck does not expect Abramovich to walk away from Chelsea, and the board and the club's auditors are certain the immediate financial future of the club is secure.

"That is a very hypothetical question and we don't expect that situation to occur," Buck said of the possibility of Abramovich leaving.

"What I can say is that in signing the accounts, both the board of Chelsea FC plc and the auditors had to make an investigation and take the view that funding for Chelsea FC in the immediate future is secure.

"We are both satisfied in the financial security of Chelsea Football Club plc."

Ultimate10002000

20-02-2007, 07:21 PM

Cech sets sights on Carling Cup win

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has targeted Carling Cup glory at the weekend as the Blues look to secure the first leg of a possible quadruple.

The 24-year-old, who returned from a fractured skull last month, believes victory over Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium will lay the foundations to close the six-point gap on Manchester United at the top of the Premiership.

Cech, who won the 2005 trophy in Jose Mourinho's first season as boss, said: "It is the same as the first year when I arrived and we played in the Carling Cup final.

"If you get your first trophy at the end of February, it gives you a lot of confidence and spirit to attack the last part of the Premiership."

Chelsea will also face Tottenham in the quarter-final of the FA Cup and clash with Porto, Mourinho's former club, in the Champions League knockout stages on Wednesday.

"During this week, Porto is very important," added the Czech Republic goalkeeper. "We play away and we need to start well in the Champions League first leg.

"We have been doing well recently and we need to confirm our form."

Mourinho returns to his native Portugal for their midweek clash, then heads back to Cardiff on Sunday, where he famously gestured towards Liverpool fans to "ssshhh" during Chelsea's last Carling Cup final appearance.

Cech's comeback from injury, following a sickening collision with Reading midfielder Stephen Hunt in October, has helped Chelsea keep six consecutive clean sheets.

The former Rennes stopper conceded twice against Liverpool a month ago but has not let a goal in since.

"It is going well," Cech told the club's official website. "It didn't start well against Liverpool but I am pleased with it of course."

Ultimate10002000

20-02-2007, 07:21 PM

Blues land Spurs tie in FA Cup

Chelsea have been drawn at home to London rivals Tottenham in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.

The Premiership champions booked their place in the last eight with a 4-0 win over Championship side Norwich at Stamford Bridge while Tottenham were impressive 4-0 victors at Fulham.

The tie at Stamford Bridge will be played over the weekend of March 10/11.

Draw in full; Middlesbrough or West Brom v Manchester United or Reading, Arsenal or Blackburn v Manchester City, Chelsea v Tottenham, Plymouth Argyle v Watford.

Ultimate10002000

20-02-2007, 07:21 PM

Blues board 'love' Mourinho - Buck

Chelsea chairman Bruce Buck has denied there are any disagreements within the club and is confident Jose Mourinho will remain as manager.

There have been reports of tension between the Portuguese coach and Russian owner Roman Abramovich this season, with the club's transfer policy said to be the cause of the arguments.

But Buck has denied there are any problems and praised the former Porto boss for his achievements since arriving at Stamford Bridge.

He told Sky Sports News: "I think he has more than the support he needs.

"We [the Chelsea board] love Jose Mourinho. He's done a great job here and brought a lot of silverware in a short period of time.

"To put the record straight - the manager, the board and the owner will never agree on all things at all times.

"There have been many discussions over the last few years and at the end of them we have always come out with a unified course of action."

Asked if he believed Mourinho would be at the club next season, Buck replied: "I do and I hope so too.

"Jose has said to us that he has not had any discussion with other clubs and I believe him."

Buck is also confident that captain John Terry and England midfielder Frank Lampard will soon commit their futures to the reigning Premiership champions, despite reports the latter could move in the summer.

"We're in the process of renegotiating the contracts for Frank Lampard and John Terry and there is goodwill on both sides in both of those discussions.

"I am hopeful both will sign revised contracts and be here in the long term."

Meanwhile, Buck was happy with the club's financial figures despite the club recording a £80.2million loss in the last financial year.

That represents an improvement of around £60m on last year's figures and with Chelsea's transfer dealing seemingly slowing down after two seasons of heavy expenditure, Buck is sure the club can soon become a viable business venture.

But, even if that process happens slower than expected, Buck is confident of Abramovich's continued support.

"We're still hopeful of being able to achieve that [the 2010 break-even target]," he added.

"The owner is aware of our business plan and we're confident of his support.

"From 2005 when we developed a five-year plan, Roman Abramovich was part of that process," Buck told the club's website.

"He was supportive of that plan then and he is supportive of it now.

"He believes and understands that the five-year plan is aggressive. Although we, the management, believe we can meet it, it is not 100% certain.

"He understands the vagaries of business. He is very supportive of what we are doing and pleased with our progress."

ceLsius

20-02-2007, 11:53 PM

Good news for Chelsea that Ballack travelled to Portugal for the champions league match against Porto and ashley cole is nearing to return. Bola need another 3-4 weeks. :D

your_father

21-02-2007, 02:29 PM

who's bola?

ceLsius

21-02-2007, 04:49 PM

who's bola?

Bolaroutz (dunno how to spell).... :s13:

Ultimate10002000

21-02-2007, 08:01 PM

It'll be tough, admits Mourinho

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho claimed his side face a stern test when they take on his former club Porto on Wednesday night.

Mourinho is expecting a difficult game against his former club but warned the Portuguese side that the big test will come in the return leg at Stamford Bridge.

He added: "I don't have to win the game tomorrow. Chelsea are a very strong team at home.

"We have not lost at home for three years and there have been only three games in which we have never scored."

Midfielder Michael Ballack is included in Mourinho's squad but Chelsea are still without Ashley Cole (knee), Joe Cole (foot) and Khalid Boulahrouz (shoulder).

Porto lead the Portuguese league by four points from Benfica, and coach Jesualdo Ferreira is urging his side to maintain their impressive run.

"We are going to continue playing with the game style we've been using for the last six months, which is playing to win," he said. "We've never lost our identity - on the contrary - we've strengthened it."

Ferreira is expecting a testing encounter but is hoping the home fans will see his side through.

He said: "It's an important game because it is a different competition, and this game may get us through to the next round.

"Obviously we'll need to make some changes during the game. We expect to be supported by our fans from the kick-off until the final whistle."

And that's not all Ferreira wants from the Porto faithful, with a decent reception for former coach Mourinho also encouraged.

"We hope he will be received in a fantastic manner," added Ferreira.

Ultimate10002000

21-02-2007, 08:01 PM

Boulahrouz shows Dutch courage

Khalid Boulahrouz is prepared to play through the pain barrier for the Chelsea cause after delaying surgery on his damaged shoulder.

Holland international Boulahrouz dislocated his shoulder just before half-time in Chelsea's 4-0 FA Cup fifth-round victory over Norwich at Stamford Bridge last Saturday.

It was the defender's first start since recovering from a knee ligament strain and he was expected to undergo an operation as a result.

But Boulahrouz has now set his sights on returning within a month and will delay surgery until the season is over, unless the shoulder weakens further.

There is more good news for Blues fans as England left-back Ashley Cole is almost ready to return to first-team action after hurting his knee against Blackburn earlier this month.

The defender is back in full training and although he did not travel to Porto for Wednesday's Champions League tie with the rest of the squad, he is on the brink of a return.

Ultimate10002000

21-02-2007, 08:02 PM

Ballack back for clash in Porto

Midfielder Michael Ballack is included in the Chelsea squad for Wednesday's Champions League last-16, first-leg tie away to FC Porto.

The Germany captain has not played since picking up a thigh injury in a friendly against Switzerland earlier this month.

Chelsea are still without Ashley Cole (knee), Joe Cole (foot) and Khalid Boulahrouz (shoulder) but have no other fresh injuries for the clash at the Estadio do Dragao.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Hilario, Cudicini, Ferreira, Geremi, Diarra, Carvalho, Terry, Bridge, Morais, Obi Mikel, Lampard, Makelele, Ballack, Essien, Shevchenko, Drogba, Robben, Kalou, Wright-Phillips.

Ultimate10002000

21-02-2007, 08:02 PM

Jose makes Wenger Euro jibe

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho claimed Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is under more pressure than him to win the Champions League.

The Blues take on Porto on Wednesday - the club Mourinho led to Champions League success three years ago - with the Portuguese boss insisting he has nothing further to prove as he strives to win Europe's top crown for a second time.

But the Portuguese coach turned up the heat on the Gunners, who they meet in the Carling Cup final on Sunday, by singling out Wenger for a special mention in the build-up to their showdown at the Millennium Stadium.

Wenger had already racked up the simmering ill-feeling between the two clubs by claiming UEFA should take a close look at Chelsea's alleged link with Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven, but Mourinho refused to bite when asked to respond.

Instead, he raised the temperature yet further by specifically singling out Wenger when he asked about the pressure of trying to win the trophy again with Chelsea.

Wenger's side lost to Barcelona in the final of the Champions League last season and Mourinho declared: "If you judge me and I don't win the Champions League, you have to judge every coach in the Champions League who has never won it, because I did it once.

"I am in front of a lot of them. If I have pressure, imagine the other managers in the world? So I don't think it is a big deal.

"We have the ambition, ambition is important. To feel you can do it is very important and to have the desire to want to do it is also crucial.

"But at the same time, we are not kids anymore, we are mature, we are not stupid, we are intelligent, and we know that it is a very difficult competition to win.

"Many great managers in the world have never done it. We have a big example, not far from us.

"Arsene Wenger is a top manager in the world. I am not laughing, I am speaking serious.

"He is a big manager in the world of football and he had never done it. So when I did it once, I can thank god for that. I have that privilege.

"I feel no pressure with Chelsea. I felt more pressure when I was with Porto.

"I am very proud and happy and have nothing else to prove. I will try to win it but don't feel any pressure at all."

Mourinho is expecting a difficult game against his former club but warned the Portuguese side that the big test will come in the return leg at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho added: "I don't have to win the game tomorrow. Chelsea are a very strong team at home.

"We have not lost at home for three years and there have been only three games in which we have never scored."

Chelsea reached the semi-finals of the competition in his first year before losing out to eventual winners Liverpool by a controversial goal.

Last season they were knocked out by eventual champions Barcelona in the last 16 but Mourinho would not be drawn on whether Chelsea were now in a stronger position to win the trophy than at any other time under his tenure.

He added: "It's difficult to answer. In my first season everybody knows what happened to us, everybody knows what happened in the semi-final.

"Last season we lost against the new European champions. I don't think that's a big drama. That's part of such a good cup competition.

"This season I cannot say 16 teams are ready to win the Champions League because some of these 16 will have little chance to win it.

"A lot of teams invested strongly on very good players with experience. In this moment you can find a lot of teams with the same chance as us.

"We played in the most difficult group with the European champions and a good German team.

"We won the group and won it with two matches to go.

"We did very, very well and in this moment we feel we are a strong team and we have some chance."

Ultimate10002000

21-02-2007, 08:03 PM

Sheva reveals Blues frustration

Chelsea's under-fire striker Andriy Shevchenko has admitted his first few months in English football have left him frustrated.

The Ukraine captain joined the English champions for £30million from AC Milan in the summer and has failed to live-up to his massive fee.

Shevchenko, on the brink of becoming the Champions League all-time top scorer, has recently found the kind of form that made him one of the world's most feared strikers.

But Shevchenko still faces a battle to convince Mourinho he is worth a place in his starting line-up and admits he has found life hard in the opening few months of his career in England.

Shevchenko said: "The first three or four months have been frustrating.

"I know we have a lot of forwards but the manager chooses the ones he wants to play.

"But for me it is important that Chelsea win. I work hard for the team but if I score goals I am a striker. But firstly, I work for the team.

"It has been difficult year for me with the World Cup and then coming to Chelsea but I have improved and feel better now."

While Shevchenko hopes for a place in the side against Porto in the Champions League tonight, boss Mourinho was more concerned with winding-up his Carling Cup final counterpart Arsene Wenger.

Arsenal and Chelsea face each other in the Millennium stadium on Sunday and Wenger had already turned up the heat on the simmering ill-feeling between the pair by claiming UEFA should take a close look at Chelsea's alleged feeder link with Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven.

Mourinho chose to ignore Wenger's comments but raised the temperature yet further by specifically singling out the Arsenal boss when he was asked about the pressure of trying to win the Champions League with Chelsea.

Arsenal lost to Barcelona in the final of the competition last season and Mourinho declared: "If you judge me and I don't win the Champions League, you have to judge every coach in the Champions League who has never won it, because I did it once.

"I am in front of a lot of them. If I have pressure, imagine the other managers in the world? So I don't think it is a big deal.

"We have the ambition, ambition is important. To feel you can do it is very important and to have the desire to want to do it is also crucial.

"But at the same time, we are not kids any more, we are mature, we are not stupid, we are intelligent, and we know that it is a very difficult competition to win.

"Many great managers in the world have never done it. We have a big example, not far from us. Arsene Wenger is a top manager in the world. I am not laughing, I am speaking serious.

"He is a big manager in the world of football and he had never done it. So when I did it once, I can thank god for that. I have that privilege.

"I feel no pressure with Chelsea. I felt more pressure when I was with Porto. I am very proud and happy and have nothing else to prove. I will try to win it but don't feel any pressure at all."

makirri

22-02-2007, 03:05 PM

whinger likes to whine about CFC. :s13:

good professional perf last night. one player back another injured. :yawn:

ceLsius

22-02-2007, 03:06 PM

whinger likes to whine about CFC. :s13:

good professional perf last night. one player back another injured. :yawn:

Wanker is not know as a voyeur for nothing ok? :s13: :D

makirri

22-02-2007, 03:10 PM

totally man. suddenly this whinger from no where pop out to whine about CFC P&L statement. :s13: :s13: :s13: :s13:

Slipshade

23-02-2007, 01:40 PM

Terry injured again. :O

Chelsea really got bad luck this season. But at least Petr Cech is back in action so they won't be conceding as many goals.

Ultimate10002000

24-02-2007, 10:06 PM

Cole and Robben fit for cup final

Ashley Cole and Arjen Robben should be available for Chelsea in Sunday's Carling Cup final against Arsenal at the Millennium Stadium.

Blues boss Jose Mourinho expects to have left-back Cole available after he recovered from a posterior cruciate ligament injury and came through a reserve outing against Reading this week.

Robben was forced off at half-time of Chelsea's Champions League clash against Porto on Wednesday with a muscle injury, but is also expected to recover by Sunday.

John Terry was also taken off in that game with an ankle injury and has been ruled out of Sunday's showpiece in Cardiff.

In Terry's absence, midfielder Michael Essien is likely to again be asked to fill in at the heart of the defence.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Hilario, Cudicini, Ferreira, A Cole, Geremi, Diarra, Carvalho, Bridge, Morais, Mikel, Lampard, Makelele, Ballack, Essien, Shevchenko, Drogba, Robben, Kalou, Wright-Phillips.

Ultimate10002000

24-02-2007, 10:07 PM

'Great' Jose: I'll never quit Blues

Jose Mourinho has boasted ahead of the Carling Cup final that he is one of the best managers in the world and that he would never quit Chelsea.

Mourinho's pledge to stay will come as the perfect tonic for the club's fans after a season when his future has been the subject of intense speculation.

But the former Porto boss insists he will remain at the club until the end of his contract in 2010 or until Chelsea sack him.

Mourinho declared: "There are only two ways for me to leave Chelsea. One way is in June 2010. I finish my contract then, and if the club does not give me a new one, it is the end of my contract and I am out.

"The second way is for Chelsea to sack me, because there is not a third way - the way the manager decides to leave and walks away. No chance!

"I would never do this to Chelsea supporters - no chance."

Mourinho has had more than a few conflicts with his Arsenal counterpart Arsene Wenger since he arrived as coach at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2004.

The pair were sniping at each other in the build-up to this weekend's showdown at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

Wenger claims that a coach can still be considered great if he has not won the Champions League, and while Mourinho agrees with his sentiments, the Chelsea chief insists his own overall record in the game makes him one of the greatest.

Mourinho won the Portuguese title, the UEFA Cup and the Champions League with Porto before moving to Chelsea and leading them to successive top flight titles and a Carling Cup triumph.

He boasted: "Yes, I think I am a great manager. Not many did what I did.

"I am not saying I am the best - I don't think that exists. I am saying I am in the group of eight, 10,12, 14 around the word - people that did similar things.

"Some did other things; some did what I did and I agree with Arsene Wenger when he says you don't need to win the Champions League to be a great manager.

"He is a great manager who has never won the Champions League so I completely agree with him. What I did in Portugal was unique.

"Nobody had done it in the history of Portuguese football, so I am the best in the history of my country.

"I think that's enough. Portugal is not third world. So what I did there is good enough.

"I came to England and won the title with Chelsea 50 years after they last won it. I was the first to win the title in the first year in the club. I won it twice.

"I won other competitions. I have a few records in the Premiership, I think. Records for victories or goals or not conceding goals, or something like that.

"Victories at home or unbeatable at home is not a record, but we are not far from the record for that

"So we did good things, and I feel I am in that group. I am not saying I am better than anyone but I think I've done enough to be in that group."

Ultimate10002000

24-02-2007, 10:08 PM

Jose plans for next season

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho is already well ahead with his plans for next season's Premiership campaign.

Mourinho has already pledged never to walk out on the club despite a season of intense speculation about his future.

Now he has unveiled more clues that he intends to stay by revealing that plans for next season are already in place.

Chelsea have won the Premiership crown for the last two seasons but remain six points behind Manchester United at the top.

Mourinho's season has been blighted by a succession of injuries to some of his top players including Petr Cech, Joe Cole, John Terry, Arjen Robben, Khalid Boulahrouz, Ashley Cole, and Michael Ballack and he is determined to remain and win back the title if United should depose them as England's top club.

Since arriving at Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2004, Mourinho has twice considered quitting but now he is set to fight it out until the end of his contract in 2010.

Mourinho said: "It is because we are living in one of the most difficult periods. We lost, we drew, we lost and people are speaking about me leaving and this and that.

"I never felt - and I think it is difficult to feel - more support than I got from my players and supporters, and the love I have around me. The fact that people wanted me to stay. I never felt something like that.

"It is impossible to think of a different way. My decision is completely made and proves what I have said for a long time - this is the best football country.

"It is not because England could have three or four teams in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, it is everything - the crowd, the atmosphere, and the fact the stadiums are full.

"I am already preparing for next season. The pre-season is done. We know when we are starting; where we are going and who we play.

"We have matches in the United States, matches in Europe. We have everything organised. One or two new signings will be enough I think."

Although he clearly loves Chelsea, Mourinho refused to rule out moving to another English club should they part company in the future.

He added: "It would be a problem because of my love for the Chelsea fans, but you never say never."

Mourinho also believes he has become a better manager because of the adversity he has faced with injuries this term.

He said: "For sure, I am a better manager. It is not easy. You learn with difficult things, and I learn every day."

Ultimate10002000

24-02-2007, 10:09 PM

Blues pressure is unbearable - Mak

Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele has claimed that internal pressures at Stamford Bridge make it "difficult" to succeed.

Ahead of Sunday's Carling Cup final against Arsenal, the French midfield anchor, 34, has spoken of the intense scrutiny faced by players and manager Jose Mourinho.

While some of those pressures come from outside the Premiership champions, Makelele admits the high standards demanded by billionaire owner Roman Abramovich make the stakes even higher.

"Now Chelsea have become one of Europe's great clubs there is such pressure on the manager and players from the public and media," he told The Sun.

"And from the owner, who puts pressure on behind the scenes. In truth, we don't really know too much about what is happening.

"Roman Abramovich does not say a lot but we can see there is so much pressure the club is putting on the manager.

"It's unbearable, especially for the players. We want to be in the right conditions to win matches and above all trophies.

"That is difficult with this internal pressure."

Makelele also reserved special praise for Mourinho for his attempts to shield the squad from the internal wranglings that make his life so difficult.

He added: "The manager has taken all the pressure on himself and has always been behind us. It's impressive.

"I do feel the internal pressure around the manager. He is managing to handle it and come through it well.

"The manager hides a huge amount from us. He preserves us from everything internal, the pressure within the club.

"He doesn't want us to feel that. The objective is not to think of those things.

"It's to go out and win matches and all the trophies ahead of us. That's the most important thing.

"We won't do that if we are involved in what's happening between the manager and the club."

Ultimate10002000

24-02-2007, 10:10 PM

Mourinho: Gunners won't go 'crazy'

Jose Mourinho admits he is unsure which Arsenal team Chelsea will face in the Carling Cup final, but does not expect any "crazy changes".

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is set to again use a delicate blend of youth and big-match experience in Cardiff, a policy which served them well earlier in the competition with impressive victories over Everton, Liverpool and arch-rivals Tottenham.

Chelsea may be without their influential skipper John Terry because of an ankle injury, but they will still provide the sternest test yet for Wenger's player rotation policy.

Mourinho maintains that while the men filling the red shirts may change, their approach will be just the same.

"It is quite difficult to know and say what Arsenal's team every week is because they have such a big and good squad," said the Chelsea manager.

"They make changes and it is difficult to say who is their first-choice - [Tomas] Rosicky or [Freddie] Ljungberg, or [Mathieu] Flamini or [Cesc] Fabregas, or Gilberto. It is difficult.

"Normally, they change players but keep their philosophy, their idea of football, their system.

"So I do not think they are going to make a crazy change for the final.

"Normally they will keep their philosophy. We have to be ready for that."

The Carling Cup was the first trophy Mourinho won with Chelsea two years ago.

He said: "We enjoyed doing it.

"A final is always a big atmosphere, a great day for the fans, and when you play these games you think about what kind of final it is."

Mourinho rejects the notion the competition has been devalued.

"Silverware is silverware," said the man who guided Porto to Champions League glory in 2004, and has steered the Blues to successive Premiership titles.

"It does not matter if you win it for the first time or 10 times before - the feeling is always a good one.

"Every player wants to play and every manager wants to be there.

"Since I have been here the first one was Chelsea versus Liverpool and this one is Chelsea against Arsenal.

"It is very good for the competition when the big teams want to win and arrive in the final."

Mourinho added: "The motivation is there. It is the kind of game I do not need to motivate myself.

"It is a great moment. The problem is when you play small matches against small opponents, it is different - but big teams and big matches, it is easy to prepare."

Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko looks set to feature in his first English showpiece final.

Mourinho has been more than happy to see the £30million man come good following a difficult spell.

"He is playing like the team-mates want him to play," said the Chelsea boss. "He has earned my respect and he has the respect of his team-mates.

"He is having his best moment since he arrived at the club.

"We are more than pleased, we are delighted with what he is doing for us."

Ultimate10002000

25-02-2007, 01:06 PM

Terry to play in Carling Cup final

John Terry will play in the Carling Cup final against Arsenal after making a shock recovery from the ankle injury he sustained against Porto.

The speed of Terry's recovery has surprised the club's medical department who had previously told Blues manager Jose Mourinho that his skipper would be available for the Portsmouth game next week.

Club doctor Bryan English, confirming the news in his latest medical update, said the England defender had "ruptured an ankle ligament" against Porto and left the stadium on crutches.

Terry had an MRI scan on Thursday and started walking the same day.

English felt on Friday that Terry's injury would take "five more days" to recover from and so informed Mourinho that Terry would not be available for selection in Cardiff.

But English revealed on Saturday that Terry "felt a big improvement in his ankle and requested that the medical department performed a fitness test".

Terry passed the test and then took part in a full training session paving the way for him to get the green light to play at the Millennium Stadium.

English added: "This rate of recovery has surprised the medical department. I have apologised to Jose for providing him with misleading information that lead to his statements in relation to John Terry's injury yesterday."

Ultimate10002000

01-03-2007, 09:10 PM

Surgeon urges JT to be cautious

John Terry has been warned to make sure he is fully recovered from his horror head injury before contemplating a return to first-team football.

Colin Shieff, consultant neuro-surgeon at the Royal Free Hospital in London, said he would normally advise similar injury victims to take it easy for at least two weeks.

Terry lost consciousness, swallowed his tongue and stopped breathing after a kick in the head from Arsenal's Abou Diaby during their 2-1 Carling Cup final win on Sunday.

Chelsea's captain checked out of hospital after treatment and returned to the Millennium Stadium in time to join in the celebrations with his victorious team-mates.

The influential Chelsea defender could now make a swift return against Portsmouth on Saturday.

But renowned brain expert Shieff said: "Someone who came in to us with a similar story and which was witnessed by so many, I would suggest to them that they take it easy for a couple of weeks.

"Boxers who were rendered unconscious would not be allowed to go back into the ring until they had satisfied the requirements of the regulatory authority. The boxing board of control would not let them fight for two or three months afterwards.

"It is one thing feeling well enough to get back to the team and another to being considered fit to play. He is more than likely to have had a brain scan on Sunday and it would probably have showed up normal and that there was no bleeding.

"During the period a person is knocked out, the brain is not working. It is like having a computer which suddenly doesn't work and won't accept anything you type or which refuses to save anything. When you get it working again, you might find it has saved your document but it may not have.

"During the period he was out, his brain wasn't getting a lot of oxygen but Chelsea are concerned about the guy as well as his performance and I am positive they will have obtained some neurological opinion and given him an MRI scan to determine whether there is any other damage.

"You can't always predict these things and it may take a while to get right. But generally, if someone is feeling fine in 24 hours, then there is likely to be no long-term problems."

But the good news for Terry is that if he plays at the weekend and gets another blow to the head, Shieff insists it will not be a danger to the Chelsea defender.

"It will be classed as a completely new event," explained Shieff. "It will not accumulate into being a greater risk. It is not likely there will be any additional damage from playing a week later but there maybe a concern that his performance might not be as good as it should be.

"But if there was any suggestion he was not right, then they would have to take him off straight away."

yoursister

01-03-2007, 11:18 PM

Go for your Quad. Chelsea! you can do it!

Ultimate10002000

02-03-2007, 08:07 PM

Terry scan was routine - Blues

Chelsea insist John Terry's scans since the Carling Cup final are part of the "routine" assessment following a head injury.

The 26-year-old was knocked unconscious during the victory against Arsenal on Sunday after being caught accidentally by Abou Diaby, but the Blues skipper returned to join the celebrations later that evening.

His scan on Wednesday revealed no complications from the head injury and Chelsea have confirmed that any further treatment is the normal part of rehabilitation.

"We stress that the scan was entirely routine and normal procedure for an injury of this type and raised no cause for concern," read a statement from the Premiership champions.

Terry swallowed his tongue and stopped breathing when he was knocked unconscious, and he later thanked Gunners physio Gary Lewin for his swift treatment from the sidelines.

Despite the positive news on Terry's scan, the severity of the injury has raised concern over whether the England skipper should return to action immediately.

Chelsea face Portsmouth on Saturday as they look to make up ground on Premiership leaders Manchester United, then they switch their attention to the Champions League next week when they face Porto.

Terry missed nearly two months earlier in the campaign, a period that coincided with Chelsea losing to Liverpool and dropping home points to Reading and Fulham.

Chelsea assistant boss Steve Clarke confirmed there are no concerns over Terry's recovery.

"John's okay, he's still a little shaken but he's improving well," he said on Sky Sports News.

"If you get a kick in the head and it knocks you out, you're going to feel groggy for a couple of days, that applies to anybody not just John Terry."

Didier Drogba, who scored twice in the Carling Cup final, is confident of closing the nine-point gap on United.

"For me being second behind Manchester United is not a drama," said the Ivory Coast striker.

"They are doing very well this season and it is unusual to have two teams fighting like this compared to the last two years, but that is how things can be in football."

Meanwhile, PSV Eindhoven defender Manuel da Costa has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.

The 20-year-old, who was born in France but has represented Portugal Under-21s, told Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha: "Obviously I would like to represent a club like Chelsea but that would depend on the conditions."

Meanwhile, the club have announced that a life-size bust of the late Peter Osgood has been commissioned.

The memorial to the player nicknamed the "King of Stamford Bridge", who died a year ago, will be in the East Stand reception of the ground.

Ultimate10002000

02-03-2007, 08:08 PM

Adebayor didn't punch me - Lamps

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has backed Arsene Wenger by confirming he was not punched by Emmanuel Adebayor in the Carling Cup Final brawl.

Arsenal boss Wenger made a furious attack on the FA investigation and branded the linesman a "liar" regarding Adebayor's sending-off for allegedly hitting Lampard during the injury-time rumpus in Cardiff.

Lampard's agent Steve Kutner told LiteSport on Thursday: "I've spoken to Frank and he told me he hadn't been hit by anybody."

Lampard's revelation throws the FA position into confusion in what is rapidly becoming a farce.

The FA insist the linesman said Adebayor 'aimed a punch' at Lampard and not that he actually struck the England midfielder.

Wenger - forced to do without the suspended Adebayor in the FA Cup defeat at Blackburn on Wednesday - claims the officials' report is untrue.

Adebayor failed with his appeal for wrongful dismissal and has also been charged with reacting aggressively and failing to leave the field.

The player has requested a personal hearing, to take place next Tuesday, and Wenger insisted: "I don't agree at all with the report of the linesman on Adebayor because, for me, he lies.

"When he says he punched Lampard, I would like you to ask Lampard if he was punched and I want him to say the truth.

"We have watched it on microscope and if you see Adebayor punching Lampard, I would like you to show me that."

Wenger went on to hint at darker issues involving Adebayor and a subsequent charge against Emmanuel Eboue, accused of violent conduct against Wayne Bridge.

In contrast, Chelsea's players escaped without further charges although the ruling body upheld John Obi Mikel's red card for his part in the fracas that sparked the brawl, which also resulted in Kolo Toure's three-match suspension.

Wenger said: "Is it just a coincidence that you have 20 men who have a brawl and only the Arsenal players were guilty?

"It is strange to look at who has been charged. It is very difficult to accept."

Asked if he was hinting that the FA had been biased against non-English players, Wenger replied: "You conclude what you want. There are players who have punched who haven't been charged."

The FA take a dim view of Wenger's comments and the Arsenal boss will now be asked to explain his outburst and could face disciplinary action.

Ultimate10002000

02-03-2007, 08:08 PM

Africa award goes to deadly Drogba

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has been named African Player of the Year for 2006, beating Barcelona's Samuel Eto'o by just five votes.

Ivory Coast forward Drogba ended Cameroon star Eto'o's three-year grip on the title after polling 79 votes from coaches of the member states of the Confederation of African Football.

Drogba's Stamford Bridge team-mate and Ghana midfielder Michael Essien was third with 36 votes.

Marseille's Nigerian left-back Taiwo Taye, 22 next month, picked up the African Young Player of the Year gong.

Arsenal defenders Emmanuel Eboue and Kolo Toure and Tottenham midfielder Didier Zokora, all Ivory Coast internationals, were named in the Team of the Year, with Chelsea rivals Drogba and Essien the other Premiership stars to feature.

Team of the Year: El Hadary (Egypt); Eboue, Toure, Gomaa (Egypt), Taye; Treka (Egypt), Essien, Zokora, M Diarra (Mali); Eto'o, Drogba.

Ultimate10002000

02-03-2007, 08:15 PM

Cole: I was right to leave Arsenal

Chelsea defender Ashley Cole believes last weekend's Carling Cup victory proves he was right to quit Arsenal for Stamford Bridge.

Cole was part of the side that beat the Gunners 2-1 at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium thanks to two goals from Didier Drogba.

The on-pitch brawl between players from each side may have marred the event somewhat but Cole insists the win in Cardiff only served to underline his decision to make the short move across London.

He told Chelsea TV: "I feel a part of it at Chelsea now. The fans seem to like me and I love the fans.

"I'm enjoying life, the manager's good and after six or seven months here I've already won a medal.

"That's why I came here."

The England full-back admits it was a hard decision to leave Arsenal but insisted that such decisions are part of any footballer's life.

"Life moves on. I loved Highbury, I loved the fans but I've moved on.

"I've seen myself in a red shirt all my life and then I'm in a blue one. But it happens, players move from team to team and it doesn't mean I'm a traitor.

"For me it's been a move for the better."

Cole, speaking ahead of Saturday evening's clash at Portsmouth, also praised Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho who has impressed the 26-year-old with his man-management skills.

"He's a great manager," he added.

"I didn't think he'd be so intense with the players and so focused on the welfare of players. He seems to be a very good manager and gets to know players on and off the pitch.

"If you're playing badly he'll tell you and you know if you don't improve you'll be off.

"He should keep on doing it because it seems to work."

Ultimate10002000

02-03-2007, 08:15 PM

Terry to miss Pompey clash

Chelsea captain John Terry is set to miss the trip to Portsmouth due to the head injury he sustained in the Carling Cup final last Sunday.

Terry has undergone a number of routine scans on his injury this week and is understood to require more rest.

Joe Cole (foot) and Khalid Boulahrouz (shoulder) remain out for Chelsea.

John Obi Mikel begins a suspension after being sent off the in the Carling Cup final, while Arjen Robben will hope to return to the starting line-up after playing a key role from the bench in recent weeks.

Kick-off at Fratton Park is 5.15pm.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Hilario, Cudicini, Hedman, Ferreira, Diarra, Geremi, Bridge, A Cole, Carvalho, Essien, Lampard, Ballack, Makelele, Robben, Shevchenko, Morais, Drogba, Kalou, Wright-Phillips.

Ultimate10002000

03-03-2007, 08:25 PM

Blues set to dodge massive fine

Chelsea will almost certainly escape a massive fine despite admitting a Football Association charge of failing to control their players.

The Premiership champions have accepted they failed to keep their players in check during a mass brawl at the end of their Carling Cup triumph over Arsenal last Sunday.

The charge, which also takes into account the club's officials, is a result of a fracas which led to Mikel Jon Obi being dismissed, along with Arsenal's Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor - while Emmanuel Eboue was also cited after the match for appearing to punch Wayne Bridge.

Chelsea have requested a personal hearing with the FA to plead their case, although it is yet to be scheduled, and they will almost certainly point out that they did not spark the unsavoury melee.

The quick reactions of coach Jose Mourinho, who - along with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger - entered the field of play to calm down a volatile situation will also play a part in their case.

But the FA may yet take a dim view of the affair and hand Chelsea a bigger fine than the £10,000 they have received for two similar misdemeanours.

The maximum punishment the FA could dish out to the Blues is £250,000 but that is unlikely.

However, Chelsea were warned as to their future conduct after being found guilty of two other indictments last March.

The first was against West Brom and the second in a 1-0 defeat at the hands of their south-west London neighbours Fulham.

The FA are understood not to consider last Sunday's incident as particularly serious but will take history into consideration before deciding on the scale of punishment.

Ultimate10002000

03-03-2007, 08:27 PM

Blues admit to lack of control

Chelsea have admitted an FA charge of failing to control their players following the injury-time brawl which marred the Carling Cup final.

The charge, which also takes into account the club's officials, is a result of a fracas which led to Mikel Jon Obi being dismissed, along with Arsenal's Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor - while Emmanuel Eboue was also cited after the match for appearing to punch Blues defender Wayne Bridge.

Chelsea have requested a personal hearing with the FA to plead their case, although it is yet to be scheduled.

The Blues claimed Mikel had been wrongfully dismissed, but their claim was thrown out by the FA, who imposed a four-game ban on the Nigerian.

Appeals made by Arsenal over the punishments meted out to Adebayor and Eboue were also dismissed, prompting allegations from Gunners manager Arsene Wenger that disciplinary procedures are "not honest".

Both Wenger and Chelsea counterpart Jose Mourinho went on to the pitch in a bid to calm down the Millennium Stadium fracas.

Arsenal are yet to issue their response to the FA's charge.

Ultimate10002000

03-03-2007, 08:27 PM

Knight not riding off, says Chris

Chris Coleman says there is "no truth" in reports that Zat Knight wants to quit Fulham - but admits he tried to sign Carlo Cudicini in January.

Coleman has dismissed talk that Knight, dropped for the Manchester United defeat following the 4-0 home loss to Spurs in the FA Cup, wants to leave Craven Cottage in the summer.

"There are going to be stories about players not in the team, but there's no truth in it. I felt he could have done better against Tottenham," he said.

Come the end of the season Coleman knows he has some of his squad out of contract who may be looking for a change of club, but added: "I expect we will bring in a couple of fresh players and lose a couple."

He had talks in January with near-neighbours Chelsea about Cudicini, but says nothing has happened since.

Coleman is preparing for Saturday's clash with Aston Villa.

Under new owner Randy Lerner, Villa manager Martin O'Neill has been splashing out but they find themselves on the same points as Fulham, albeit with a game in hand and a far superior goal difference.

"Aston Villa have been crying out for somebody to spend some money," Coleman added.

"First of all they got Martin, whose reputation speaks for itself. They've probably already spent the best part of £20million, but to get where they want to go and be top five year in, year out, they're going to have to spend some serious cash.

"Martin had a great start when he had his players fit, but he found out really quickly when you have a small squad and get injuries it's so difficult.

"They have been stretched a lot of the time and bought because they needed a bit of strength in depth and more quality.

"Our chairman has already spent an unbelievable amount just to get us where we are. Villa get 40,000 crowds and are just a bigger club. We had 24,000 last weekend and that's our capacity.

"I'm realistic enough to know what's on the table for us because we are two different clubs."

Ultimate10002000

03-03-2007, 08:28 PM

Ballack demands 'big' Blues display

Chelsea midfielder Michael Ballack insists there is little chance of a Carling Cup hangover denting their chances of a win against Portsmouth.

The Blues need to win at Fratton Park to keep the pressure on leaders Manchester United.

And Ballack, still revelling in the glory of their dramatic cup final win over Arsenal in Cardiff, said: "These are the games you have to win, especially in this moment because we are nine points down and we need to win all games to have a chance.

"It is not easy in Portsmouth and we have just had a big game as well, but we are a big club, we have big players.

"This is what big clubs do, they can concentrate and they can win the games."

ceLsius

04-03-2007, 03:51 AM

Another clean sheet for Chelsea with superb saves from Petr Cech. :D

Ultimate10002000

04-03-2007, 04:21 PM

Cech: Sheva's work bearing fruit

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech insists that record buy Andriy Shevchenko can play a major part in their quest for glory in the Champions League.

Cech, who returned from a serious head injury to help the club land their first trophy of the season in the Carling Cup final last weekend, believes Shevchenko's season has been hampered by the World Cup.

Shevchenko scored the vital away goal for Jose Mourinho's side in the 1-1 first leg draw in Porto a fortnight ago and is expected to play against the Portuguese side at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night.

Cech said: "It is important Sheva is given time. Everyone at the club has supported him and he's had time to train well.

"He was injured just before the World Cup and then he came straight to Chelsea.

"It is never easy for any player after a World Cup because you haven't had a break and you can't really get up to your best.

"You could see that Thierry Henry had the same problem - he couldn't reach his maximum, but he had a break, had time to relax and to work and now he's back and scoring goals again.

"I think it is the same with Sheva. He didn't play that much, he had the time to work hard and you can see now that it's bearing fruit."

Chelsea are likely to be without their influential captain John Terry against the Portuguese side.

Terry suffered a head injury in the Carling Cup final win over Arsenal and it may be too soon for him to return.

Midfielder Michael Essien is set to replace him again at the heart of the defence alongside Ricardo Carvalho and the Ghana international is not phased by having to switch roles.

Essien was forced to play at centre-half during Terry's original absence in December when the England player underwent surgery on a back injury and insists he is happy with the situation.

Essien said: "I played as a centre-back for three or four months at Lyon after our captain got injured.

"I used to be a centre-back when I was a kid, so over the years I've played there quite a lot. I don't mind where I play. I'll do whatever I have to for the team."

Ultimate10002000

04-03-2007, 04:24 PM

Terry won't face Porto - Mourinho

Jose Mourinho revealed John Terry will not be back for Chelsea's Champions League clash with Porto following the 2-0 win at Portsmouth.

Terry was knocked unconscious by an accidental kick in the head from Abou Diaby during Chelsea's Carling Cup final win over Arsenal last weekend.

And after goals from Didier Drogba and substitute Salomon Kalou left the Blues nine points behind Manchester United with a game in hand, Mourinho admitted the England skipper would not be rushed back into action.

Chelsea face Porto at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday and Mourinho told Prem Plus: "JT to play against Porto? No chance.

"The man is before the player. JT is more important than a football result and we don't risk him. The medical rules are the medical rules."

Asked when Terry might return, Mourinho replied: "Maybe next weekend against Tottenham (in the FA Cup quarter-finals).

Ultimate10002000

04-03-2007, 04:25 PM

Mourinho: Title dream still alive

Jose Mourinho insists Chelsea's dream of a third successive Premiership title is still intact after the 2-0 victory over Portsmouth.

Goals from Didier Drogba - his 29th of the season - in the first half and another from substitute Salomon Kalou nine minutes from time set the seal on a fine south coast success for the Blues.

Mourinho is adamant there is still time to overhaul United even though he admits his side cannot afford to drop any more points in the 10 games remaining.

And just 24 hours after Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told Mourinho to 'button his lip', the normally outspoken Portuguese coach was full of praise for his title adversaries.

Mourinho declared: "We believe, we have to believe. Anything is possible in football. If we have the best players to play every game there is no doubt about it.

"United deserve respect, They won and in the best way. They have no injuries to their best players and they are fighting. The manager, the players, the club, deserve respect.

"Our job is to fight them, go back to six points behind them and keep the pressure on them.

"We started the day 12 points behind them and now we are nine. If we win our game in hand it will be back to six and they still have to come to Stamford Bridge.

"We have to wait for them to drop some points but I said last season when we were top that the pressure is always on the second team. That is still the case.

"They have to drop four points and that is out of our hands. But 10 games is enough."

Chelsea had Czech international Petr Cech to thank for preserving their lead in the last 20 minutes when he made two sensational stops from Andrew Cole and Kanu.

Cech returned at the end of January after four months out recovering from a fractured skull and Mourinho could only wonder at the amount extra points Chelsea would have collected had he been fit all season.

Mourinho added: "His saves were magnificent. With Petr in goal all season and not being out for four months - how many more points would Chelsea have now?

"Petr Cech is a goalkeeper that wins you up to 15 points a season. But I am really enjoying this season. I have been here three years and this is the best one.

"The first season was no problem, the second was no problem, and the third has given us a lot of problems. But I want to give my team a lot of credit because we are still in three major competitions and have the Carling Cup in our pockets."

Beaten Pompey boss Harry Redknapp could not fault his team's performance.

He said: "I thought we played well and was a bit disappointed to be 1-0 down at half-time.

"In the second half we were a lot stronger and I thought there was an equaliser there for us but the keeper has pulled off a couple of fantastic saves. He is a world-class goalkeeper.

"We got caught pushing forward for their second but overall I was very happy with the players.

"Chelsea are not champions for nothing, they are a great, great side. Them and Man United have been fantastic all season and to match them tonight I was delighted with the players.

"I thought we played well and the lads have been outstanding. We've only been beaten at home three times this season and that's not bad."

Ultimate10002000

04-03-2007, 04:26 PM

Drogba and Kalou keep Blues in race

Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou ensured Chelsea kept alive their Premiership title hopes with a 2-0 win over Portsmouth at Fratton Park.

Drogba, whose double won the Carling Cup for the Blues last Sunday, put Chelsea in command with a first-half volley at Fratton Park.

The strike, his 29th goal of the season, capped a remarkable week for the Ivory Coast international who was named African player of the year in midweek.

But the champions needed Petr Cech to keep them in the game with two superb saves before Kalou wrapped up the points with a second goal in the 81st minute.

Chelsea went into the game knowing that anything less than a victory would probably hand the title to United, who had defeated Liverpool at Anfield earlier in the day.

But Jose Mourinho will be heartened by the fact his side still have a game in hand on United who are also due to visit Stamford Bridge in April.

But it was not all plain sailing for the Blues on the south coast as they quickly found themselves on the back foot in the early stages.

Cech had to be as his best to keep out a smart right-footed shot from Lomana LuaLua after eight minutes.

Chelsea looked distinctly out of sorts in the difficult conditions despite having the majority of the possession.

But they showed they were dangerous on the break when Drogba and Andriy Shevchenko combined down the left flank.

The opportunity looked to have gone when referee Mark Halsey got in the way but the loose ball rebounded to Ashley Cole who lofted it just over the crossbar.

Shevchenko disappointed when he sent a shot into the side-netting after being put through by Arjen Robben.

However, the Ukrainian captain made amends moments later by supplying a sublime ball for Drogba. But the Ivorian's accuracy was off key for once and he fired high and wide to earn the derision of the home fans.

In the 27th minute, Kanu tried his luck from 25 yards but Cech was equal to hs low drive and collected the ball comfortably.

But Chelsea took the lead five minutes later and it was the in-form Drogba who fired home his 29th goal of the season.

Robben laid the ball back to Cole and the England defender's long cross eluded the Pompey defence but not the lurking striker who despatched a right-footed volley across James and into the bottom corner.

It was rough justice on the home side who had more than matched the champions until Drogba's intervention.

Nine minutes before the break, Taylor got clear down the right flank for Portsmouth but his low cross was well taken by the diving Cech.

Portsmouth continued to take the game to Chelsea but poor finishing prevented them from scoring the equaliser they deserved on their first-half display.

Richard Hughes had the chance to test Cech two minutes before the break when he collected a loose ball 20 yards from Chelsea's goal.

But the midfielder could not keep his head over the ball and it flew over the crossbar and into the massed ranks of the Chelsea fans behind Cech's goal.

Chelsea squandered a great chance to put themselves two in front in the 46th minute when a lovely move ended with Drogba putting Robben through on goal.

But the Dutch winger's shot hit the upright when a cross would have found the waiting Shevchenko completely unmarked in the six-yard box.

Chelsea were now completely in control and Lampard demonstrated their growing confidence by unleashing a 25-yard drive that James did well to hold as it threatened to reach the top corner of the net.

In the 57th minute, Robben was jeered by the crowd when he went down under a challenge and then appeared to be hit by a missile thrown from the crowd.

The Dutch winger was then booed every time he collected the ball as Chelsea looked for the decisive goal.

Portsmouth appeared to have run out of ideas in attack as Chelsea, inspired by the giant frame of Michael Essien, coped easily with everything the south coast side could muster.

But it was to take two sensational saves from Cech to protect their lead.

In the 77th minute, he saved brilliantly at point-blank to stop a header from Andrew Cole and he repeated the feat seconds later to turn another headed effort from Kanu around the post.

Pompey paid a heavy price for their failure to beat Cech when Lampard's long pass was headed into the path of Kalou by Cole and the Chelsea substitute slipped the ball beyond James to keep their title dreams alive.

Ultimate10002000

04-03-2007, 04:26 PM

Well done Chelsea and please keep up the good work. I am sure the team will still have a chance to win the title.

bloodychicken

06-03-2007, 08:39 AM

wah only 25,000 views ar! haha.. hey Ultimate10002000 i suggest u get some friends to make up the numbers la everytime only u post for urself to see..

ceLsius

06-03-2007, 02:27 PM

I'm here also ok? :D
Upzzz :s12: for Chelsea to win Porto....

Ultimate10002000

06-03-2007, 07:20 PM

Porto coach scoffs at Mourinho claims

Porto coach Jesualdo Ferreira insists Jose Mourinho cannot yet call himself the most successful manager in Portuguese history.

Mourinho, who joined Porto as coach five years ago, won the UEFA Cup and a domestic double in his first season before retaining the league title and winning the Champions League with a 3-0 victory over Monaco in Gelsenkirchen the following year.

The Chelsea boss recently claimed he was the best manager to emerge from Portugal but Ferreira insists only the future will determine whether he is right or not.

Ferreira said: "Jose Mourinho has been a manager for five or six years and it is unquestionable that he has had great success.

"But there are still some years ahead during which time that status might be confirmed."

Porto have a difficult task on their hands if they are to progress to the last eight of the Champions League at Chelsea's expense.

Andriy Shevchenko's equaliser for the English champions in Porto a fortnight ago earned Mourinho's side a vital away goal in a 1-1 draw.

Ferreira says he will make changes to his line-up tomorrow night but would not reveal whether he will stick with former Chelsea transfer target Adriano in attack.

Porto remained top of the Portuguese league by overcoming Braga 1-0 last weekend with Adriano, preferred to top scorer Helder Postiga, notching the matchwinner in the ninth minute.

Chelsea's home advantage should be enough to see them overcome the Dragons, even though the visitors have conceded just 10 goals in their domestic league so far this season.

But Ferreira is without the services of defender Bosingwa who damaged a thigh in the win over Braga.

He has not travelled with the squad but Argentina midfielder Lucho Gonzalez, who was taken off in the same match with a minor injury, is fit for selection.

Chelsea have not lost at home since Mourinho took charge in the summer of 2004 but Ferreira does not see that as a major obstacle in their quest to defeat the English champions.

Ferreira said: "The Porto team will be different and it will have to be more sure of itself.

"The fact that Chelsea have not lost at home does not, in itself, mean anything. That is not the strength of the team - we have to play well but being unbeaten at home is not necessarily the thing that determines the outcome of a match.

"We are playing a very strong team and we are a team that wants to be strong as well. It is difficult to measure these things but I am sure we have the means and we are capable of coming through this qualifying round."

Ultimate10002000

06-03-2007, 07:21 PM

I'm at home at Chelsea - Sheva

Andriy Shevchenko believes he has finally adjusted to English football at Chelsea and remains optimistic about the team's chances in Europe.

Goals were in short supply for Shevchenko after his £30.8million move from AC Milan, but he has enjoyed steady improvement of late and in an interview with Radio Italia on Monday, the 30-year-old said: "At the beginning it was difficult.

"I had to change the way I played, adapt to English football. I believe it's normal to have a period of adjustment.

"I arrived at Chelsea following a difficult season for me with injuries and a World Cup behind me, but I have now overcome that difficult time."

Things were going so badly for Shevchenko that he had even received criticism from Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho has been more complimentary in recent times and Shevchenko admitted: "With Mourinho, things are going well."

The Blues host Porto on Tuesday in the return leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.

Shevchenko, whose brilliant strike earned his side a 1-1 draw in Portugal, said: "We have the quality to win the Champions League.

"Against FC Porto, it will be a very delicate and difficult game because they are a good side.

"But we took home a positive result and now we have very good chance of doing well."

As for Milan, the Rossoneri have struggled since Shevchenko's departure but nevertheless reached the last 16 themselves.

They go into Wednesday's game against Celtic on the back of a goalless draw in Glasgow.

"Milan is growing and I see the team that is much better," he said.

"They played a great game against Celtic and only missed the goal. I think they will go through."

Shevchenko is still a big fan of Milan and remains close friends with club president Silvio Berlusconi, who is the godfather of his son.

There have been reports linking the former Dynamo Kiev star with a return to Milan, but he has no intention of going back.

"I speak with president Berlusconi often," said Shevchenko.

"For me, it was extremely difficult to tell the president that I wanted to leave," Shevchenko said.

"I'll never forget Milan. For me, it was a very important experience and one which has allowed me to become the player I am.

"But I made my choice, I arrived in England and now I want to continue on this path."

Ultimate10002000

06-03-2007, 07:21 PM

Mourinho not feeling the heat

Jose Mourinho insists he will walk away with £1million in his pocket and land another job inside a couple of months if Chelsea sack him.

The Chelsea coach, preparing for Tuesday night's last 16 return leg against Porto at Stamford Bridge, is adamant he is under no extra pressure to win another trophy this season.

The Portuguese coach has already bagged the Carling Cup with a 2-1 victory over Arsenal last month and the Blues remain in the Champions League, the last eight of the FA Cup and in the race for a third successive Premiership crown.

But even though Chelsea's season has been blighted by injuries to goalkeeper Petr Cech, captain John Terry and England midfielder Joe Cole, Mourinho is full of praise for the way his squad has kept the team in the hunt for success on four fronts.

Mourinho's own future has also been the subject of intense speculation this season with rumours persisting that he will quit Stamford Bridge in the summer instead of seeing out his contract.

The Blues chief is tied to the club for a further three years and despite rumours of a rift between him and billionaire owner Roman Abramovich, Mourinho insists he is under no pressure to win another trophy this season.

Indeed, he already appears to have mapped out his future if Abramovich should decide to call time on Mourinho's managerial tenure.

Mourinho declared: "I am not under any pressure to win something else because the only pressure I am under is from the pressure I put on myself.

"I don't accept pressure from other people. I don't get depressed. If the club decides to sack me because of bad results, that's part of the game.

"If that happens, I will be a millionaire and I will get another club a couple of months later. I cannot win every week, every year. But I have family, my kids are healthy, I have a lot of friends, I have a good life - pressure of what? I put myself under pressure, just like I did when playing three against three in the street as a kid. I like to win - but pressure? No way."

But Mourinho is desperate for his players to take the credit for keeping their hopes of a quadruple alive during a season when they have lost three of their most influential players for long periods.

Mourinho added: "I am not saying it is a miracle or something like superman but my players deserve respect and credit.

"I have to give credit to Michael Essien for the way he's been playing in a position that is not his normal one.

"I have to give credit to Ricardo Carvalho for playing with a partner who is not a central defender. I have to give credit to Frank Lampard because he is playing every game with the added responsibility of wearing the captain's armband.

"I have to give more credit to Lassana Diarra because he is a young boy playing at this level at this moment. I have to give more credit to Petr Cech because he came back after his head injury and looks better than he was before. I have to credit the attackers for playing every game with no rotation like last season.

"What gives us motivation is the fact that we feel we are doing a very good job. You can say or think that because we are second in the Premiership, our work is not so good as it was in the previous seasons.

"But a normal team, with a normal squad, without the atmosphere we have in our dressing room, and having suffered our circumstances, would not be in our position.

"So to be where we are in the Champions League after getting through a very difficult group with Barcelona and Werder Bremen, and without Petr Cech and John Terry for half-a-season and Joe Cole for the whole season, I am more than happy with the players.

"Our supporters know the effort and commitment the team is putting in during every game. That is the motivation. This team deserves to win, and not just the league cup, this team deserves to win more.

"My confidence and motivation is that at the end of the season, my players will have another cup in their hands and they have got something for the effort they have put in."

Chelsea's England left-back Ashley Cole believes they have a better chance of winning the Champions League than the Premiership but Mourinho is not of the same opinion.

He added: "At the moment in the Champions League, 16 teams can win it and only two can win the Premiership. From that aspect, it looks more difficult to win the Champions League because the 16 teams have the same chances.

"At this moment in the Premiership, Manchester United are in front and because of that they have more chances to win it than us. But Chelsea is alive in the three competitions we are involved with and we want more than the league cup.

"That competition is finished, it is over and the trophy is in our room. We are in three other competitions and out of the three, we want something more to stay with us."

Mourinho is keen to avoid hyping up tomorrow's return leg against his former club after a 1-1 draw in the first.

Mourinho said: "I respect our opponents and I expect they will be strong but I have good players and I expect that will perform well.

"I don't think it is an issue any more. One day I will play against Chelsea. I cannot make my career thinking about how I was once in this club or that club.

"I have to play the game without such emotions. This is just another game. I just want to be in the quarter-final."

Ultimate10002000

06-03-2007, 07:22 PM

Villa 'flattered' by Premier interest

Valencia star David Villa is "flattered" by reported interest from Liverpool and Chelsea and admits Rafa Benitez has tried to sign him before.

The 25-year-old Spain striker has impressed since joining Valencia in 2005 and claims Benitez tried to take him to the club a year earlier when he was in charge at the Mestalla.

"They (Liverpool and Chelsea) are two big teams and both have a lot of attraction," Villa told the Daily Star.

"Liverpool don't just have a coach who is Spanish but I also have a lot of friends there.

"When Rafa was coach at Valencia and I was at Real Zaragoza, there was contact about me joining Valencia. But I couldn't arrive until the year after he left.

"The talk is flattering, and it makes you see that if you are doing things well, other teams should become interested in you.

"But all the time there is nothing concrete, then I am not going to think about it too much. The day that happens, we will look at the situation then.

"Things can happen in the future but right now I am happy at Valencia."

Ultimate10002000

06-03-2007, 07:23 PM

Drogba gunning for European glory

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba insists it would be "nothing special" to score 30 goals this season if the Blues do not win the Champions League.

The Ivory Coast international has smashed 29 goals in all competitions so far and is on course to become the first Chelsea player since Kerry Dixon to score 30 in a season.

Drogba's sensational season has seen him crowned African Player of the Year and silence the boo-boys who once slammed the £24million acquisition as a diver and a cheat.

However, he will take some limited pleasure if he manages to become the first Chelsea player for 22 years to reach the 30-goal mark - as long as the team are winners.

Drogba said: "It would be nothing special if we don't win the Champions League.

"I know how big Kerry Dixon was for Chelsea and it will be something great for me to reach his record."

His goals have included a stunning brace against Arsenal to land Chelsea their second Carling Cup triumph inside three seasons.

That success took Jose Mourinho's trophy haul to five since he was appointed in the summer of 2004 and Drogba will only be happy if his goals haul in Europe earns the Blues more silverware.

"There is no interest for me to score if we don't win," he added.

"I want my team to win and everybody to be happy. Even if I don't score until the end of the season it won't matter if we win the Champions League and the FA Cup."

Drogba's exploits in front of goal have put him in line for the coveted PFA Player of the Year award from his fellow professionals.

Drogba, along with Manchester United's Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo, are the two players most likely to fight it out for the prestigious honour.

But the Ivorian played down his own chances of adding the English title to the African continental award - suggesting team-mate Michael Essien and former England international Paul Scholes should also be considered.

Drogba added: "It is difficult for me as everybody is saying me or Ronaldo. But Essien and Scholes are having good seasons and so it is difficult to choose one.

"Michael has made a big contribution and I think he deserves some big praise for that."

Drogba will spearhead the Chelsea attack against Porto along with Andriy Shevchenko on Tuesday night as the Blues look to earn a place in the last eight of the competition at the expense of Mourinho's former club.

The first leg in Porto finished 1-1 thanks to Shevchenko's equaliser and Mourinho is keen to play down the hype associated with the club he led to the Champions League crown three years ago.

Mourinho said: "I respect our opponents and I expect they will be strong but I have good players and I expect that they will perform well.

"I don't think it is an issue any more. One day I will play against Chelsea. I cannot make my career thinking about how I was once in this club or that club.

"I have to play the game without such emotions. This is just another game. I just want to be in the quarter-final. My desire is not to beat Porto but to be in the quarter-final, if you understand that."

ceLsius

07-03-2007, 02:06 PM

Next match FA cup against Spurs. Woohoo.... time to knock out spurs. :D

Ultimate10002000

08-03-2007, 02:44 PM

Robben & Ballack see Blues through

Goals from Arjen Robben and Michael Ballack helped Chelsea beat Porto 2-1 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate in the Champions League.

Jose Mourinho's former club had threatened to dump Chelsea out of the competition after Ricardo Quaresma had given them a precious half-time lead.

But Robben restored parity three minutes after the break and Ballack's strike - his first since November - put Chelsea in the last eight.

It had looked distinctly worrying for the Blues in the opening half when they were often left bamboozled by some clever one-touch football by Porto.

Chelsea enjoyed the lion's share of the possession but, largely due to some competent defending from the visitors, they failed to put any real pressure on Porto goalkeeper Helton.

That was also largely due to the impressive frame of Pepe at the heart of their defence.

The tall defender hardly gave Didier Drogba an inch of space to exploit and he was ably assisted by the pacey Fucile on the right flank.

Fucile kept the willing Robben at bay and the Dutchman was forced to switch wings to try and find a way through the meanest defence in the Portuguese league.

Chelsea had started promisingly with Andriy Shevchenko attempting to beat Helton with a curling effort from 25 yards in the opening minute.

But the threat from Porto's quickfire football materialised with deadly effect in the 15th minute when, for once, the normally unflappable Michael Essien was caught on the hop.

Essien has been a rock at the heart of Chelsea's defence in the absence of captain John Terry but he was hopelessly out of position as Lucho Gonzalez fed the ball through to Quaresma.

The Porto winger showed why his reputation is growing throughout Europe by leaving Carvalho in his wake as he drew goalkeeper Petr Cech out of his goal before slipping the ball under his body and into the net.

Chelsea huffed and puffed away but too many of their more reliable stalwarts were having an off-day.

Claude Makelele, Ballack and Frank Lampard were strangely off the pace for much of the half and the sense of growing frustration was heightened further when Robben was booked for diving in the 34th minute.

Referee Roberto Rosetti was correct to show the Dutchman the yellow card after he tumbled theatrically to the ground when attempting to round Fucile.

Chelsea's frustration further erupted moments before the interval when Drogba was accused of elbowing Fucile. The Porto defender then incurred the wrath of the home fans by falling to the ground when asked to leave the field for treatment to a cut head.

It was all too much for Mourinho, who stormed down the tunnel to the dressing room minutes before the half-time whistle. Makelele, clearly not enjoying his best spell at Chelsea, was understandably replaced by Mikel Jon Obi at half-time.

The change did not have time to take effect before Chelsea hauled themselves back on level terms in the 48th minute.

Right-back Lassana Diarra and Robben combined on the right before the Dutchman took aim from 25 yards.

His grass-cutter of a shot looked harmless enough but Helton, a virtual spectator in the first half, made a complete hash of collecting the ball and it bobbled out of his hands and into the net.

It was a different Chelsea in the second half as they gave Porto little time on the ball.

The extra work ethic was paying dividends with Robben causing panic in the Porto defence every time he was presented with the ball.

Helton was clearly rattled by his mistake and he was lucky to survive on two other occasions when he failed to deal with crosses adequately enough.

The second goal duly arrived in some style 11 minutes from time as Chelsea carved open the Porto defence with ease.

Ashley Cole's cross picked out Drogba and for once the Ivorian used his power to good effect to steer the ball to the unmarked Shevchenko.

The Ukrainian captain unselfishly opted to head the ball back into the six-yard box where the waiting Ballack despatched a low volley into the corner of the net.

It was the signal for party time at Stamford Bridge and Chelsea, knowing one more goal from Porto would put them out on away goals, kept their composure to keep them on course for an unprecedented quadruple.

Ultimate10002000

08-03-2007, 02:45 PM

Police probe Mikel's Blues move

Chelsea midfielder Mikel John Obi's contract with former club Lyn Oslo is being investigated by Norwegian police.

The 19-year-old Nigerian midfielder moved to Stamford Bridge from Lyn despite having already agreed a switch to Manchester United before the clubs agreed a financial deal to allow him to join the Blues.

Norwegian officers are investigating claims of contract forgery in relation to his protracted transfer, although it is understood the investigation does not involve Chelsea or United.

"The case is about document forgery and that is serious," Oslo police attorney Paal Hernaes said.

Hernaes, who reportedly revealed Mikel was questioned last week, added: "Mikel is just a witness in the case."

Lyn claim now-departed sporting director Morgan Andersen dealt with the transfer.

A spokesman for the club told The Guardian: "We know there have been police investigations, but we haven't heard anything from the police and, as far as we are concerned, the matter has nothing more to do with us.

"It was Morgan Andersen who dealt with it and he has now left the club."

Ultimate10002000

08-03-2007, 02:47 PM

Goal will do Ballack good - Mourinho

Jose Mourinho hopes Michael Ballack's goal against Porto could help the German make his mark at Chelsea after a torrid time at Stamford Bridge.

Ballack, who joined Mourinho's Premiership champions on a free transfer from Bayern Munich in the summer, has struggled to adapt to the English game and has been criticised by fans.

The Germany captain has yet to produce the kind of form that made him one of Europe's top players but Tuesday night's 79th-minute Champions League strike will help to silence the doubters.

Chelsea had trailed to a Ricardo Quaresma goal at the interval but a dreadful mistake by Porto goalkeeper Helton allowed Arjen Robben to level three minutes after the restart.

Ballack then dashed Porto's dreams of putting one over on their old boss Mourinho when he finished off a four-man move with a crisp volley from eight yards, sealing a 2-1 win on the night and a 3-2 aggregate success.

Mourinho said: "I keep saying that criticism doesn't make me decide to play him.

"I decide in my mind and from the way I analyse the game. I accept, sometimes, opinions from my assistants - nothing else.

"What the crowd thinks does not make me change my mind. But I think the goal is good for him because it put Chelsea in the quarter-finals.

"It is one of those goals that is like a stamp. He put in a great effort to play a good game. He was exactly like the team - didn't play well in the first half, but played very well in the second half.

"But we are a team and I don't like individuals to be in front of the team performance."

Ultimate10002000

08-03-2007, 02:48 PM

Mourinho: I got reaction I wanted

Jose Mourinho admitted to giving his Chelsea players a half-time ultimatum after fearing they were heading out of the Champions League.

The Premiership champions trailed to a Ricardo Quaresma goal at the interval against Porto at Stamford Bridge and Mourinho challenged his side to prove they were brave enough to take the game to his former club and save their European skins.

Mourinho's men responded within three minutes of the re-start when Arjen Robben's shot was fumbled into the net by goalkeeper Helton and Michael Ballack struck 11 minutes from time to earn them a 2-1 win (3-2 on aggregate) and a place in quarter-finals.

Mourinho's masterstroke was to replace the ineffective France midfielder Claude Makelele with John Obi Mikel at the interval and the change worked wonders as Chelsea succeeded in turning the tie in their favour.

Mourinho declared: "I had a difficult half-time in the way I had to speak with the players because, at that point, we were out of the Champions League.

"Psychologically, I just made the players think a little bit. I told them that, at that moment, we were out of the competition and either we responded to the situation or we were scared of it.

"If we were scared of it, it is goodbye and we are out of the competition. If we enjoy, let's play 45 minutes and enjoy being under pressure and see if we can cope with it or not. I think the reaction was very positive.

"When you come out and score a goal inside three minutes, it gives you extra confidence. My players showed a very strong mentality.

"But Porto did better than us in the first half. Not because they were winning one-zero but because of the way they were playing.

"But I was happy with the change I made at half-time. Mikel John Obi gave us the dynamic in midfield. After that, the game was intense and Chelsea had a higher intensity because the English league gives us that.

"From our very strong second half, we deserved to go through. But although Porto are sad - they can be proud of the work they did.

"The game was open until the very last minute. When you go to the second half and you score a goal that makes it 2-2 on aggregate, I don't think it is destiny.

"It is the reaction the team had immediately. At the same time, a great goalkeeper, and he is a great goalkeeper, made his mistake. But that is part of the game.

"In the first half I was cool but I was completely aware that Porto were better than us. But Lassana Diarra stepped into the midfield and we played with three defenders in the second half.

"They lost control of the game at that moment. But the Porto manager gave me a hard time and made me think a lot."

Porto coach Jesualdo Ferreira had no complaints with the outcome even though his side has looked capable of putting Chelsea out of the competition.

Ferreira said: "This game shows the strength of Chelsea. We were better in the first half and had the possibility of winning the game.

"We were very good in the opening half then the Chelsea coach made an alteration and it changed the structure of the game a little.

"We had to adapt to this but Chelsea's strength prevailed in the end. It was a fair result and we are very proud of ourselves. My team played very well. Porto is a strong side and we will continued in the Champions League next season.

"Chelsea are a top team with excellent players. We were prepared for the way Chelsea play, not used to it. Many teams in the Champions League have their own style but their second goal was scored from a pass that is not very common in Portugal."

Ultimate10002000

08-03-2007, 02:49 PM

Lamps still waiting on contract offer

Frank Lampard is still waiting for a new contract offer from Chelsea but wants to concentrate on his football before sorting out his future.

The 28-year-old's current deal at Stamford Bridge expires in just over two years but under FIFA's rules he could buy out the remainder of the contract in the summer.

Neither Lampard nor his agent, Steve Kutner, have suggested the England midfielder is anything but committed to the Premiership champions, although no agreement has been made yet.

Lampard said: "It's down to the club to come to me with an offer, I'm waiting for that.

"There are a lot of things going on and we're at a stage of the season when it's important that the board of directors and the players concentrate on football."

Although there is the possibility of a clean sweep of trophies, Chelsea remain nine points behind Premiership leaders and their Champions League hopes were under threat last night when Porto took the lead at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, playing against the side he led to the European Cup in 2004, then made the bold move of taking off Claude Makelele for Mikel Jon Obi but the decision was vindicated by the Nigerian youngster's performance.

"He didn't very well and it was a good change by the manager," said Lampard after the 3-2 aggregate win put Chelsea into the quarter-finals.

"He got on the ball and moved it about, and allowed me and Michael Ballack to push forward in the midfield.

"That's what he can do. Jon Mikel has all the attributes physically and talent-wise to be a very good player. What he has to do is keep pushing himself to get there, because he's got it all."

Although it was Arjen Robben and Michael Ballack who scored the second-half goals against the Portuguese champions, Mikel's presence was considered the the catalyst for the turnaround.

It marked the next incident of the midfielder's colourful career to date, which has involved his controversial move to Stamford Bridge, accusations of a poor attitude, and a sending off against Arsenal in the Carling Cup final for his part in the infamous Millennium Stadium brawl.

"He didn't deserve it at Cardiff, that's for sure," added Lampard. "He's a physical boy who will put his foot in and might pick up yellows or reds.

"Technically he's very good, he's young but is already a good player and will be a very good player."

Meanwhile, Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has spoken of his change in outlook since returning from the fractured skull he suffered against Reading in October.

He has only conceded five goals since coming back in January and is targeting his first Champions League final.

"We've been in the semi-finals and I hope we can do better this year," said the 24-year-old Czech Republic international.

"Maybe I'm enjoying the game more now after the most difficult moment of my life. It's always nice to have the chance to be on the pitch, it's as simple as that.

"Sometimes you play a difficult game or the weather is not good and you have to find the motivation - but I'm pleased in all conditions, against all opponents and in all competitions. I'm just pleased that I'm on the pitch."

Ultimate10002000

09-03-2007, 08:48 PM

Mourinho mulls over Terry decision

Chelsea have to decide whether to recall John Terry for their FA Cup quarter-final clash with Tottenham at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Captain Terry has not played since being kicked in the head by Arsenal defender Abou Diaby in the Carling Cup final almost a fortnight ago.

Chelsea have no fresh injury worries following their midweek Champions League victory over Porto.

Arjen Robben will hope he has done enough to retain his place in the side after scoring in midweek, while Joe Cole (foot) remains their only long-term absentee.

Kick-off at Stamford Bridge is at 12.45pm.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Ferreira, Geremi, Diarra, Carvalho, Essien, Bridge, A Cole, Lampard, Makelele, Ballack, Drogba, Shevchenko, Kalou, Wright-Phillips, Boulahrouz, Morais.

Ultimate10002000

09-03-2007, 08:50 PM

Alex eyes summer Chelsea switch

Brazilian defender Alex has confirmed he is a Chelsea player - and revealed his "dream" of joining the Premiership champions in the summer.

Fresh from scoring the goal that put PSV Eindhoven into the Champions League quarter-finals at the expense of Arsenal, the 24-year-old expressed his desire to play in England.

"I'm glad if my winning goal against Arsenal makes Chelsea happy and it would be a dream to play for such a great club," Alex said in the Sun.

Reports suggest the Premiership champions already own the player - signing him from Santos three seasons ago - and have allowed him to play for their Dutch counterparts.

However, Chelsea insist the only agreement in place is an option to purchase Alex at the end of the season.

Alex said: "Chelsea bought me from Santos and I know my contract belongs to them.

The Brazilian added he was expecting to move to Stamford Bridge last summer but the move was blocked.

"I don't understand why the coach did that," he said.

"Apparently, there was a problem with a permit and I had to go back to PSV."

As for the prospect of drawing Chelsea in Friday's Champions League quarter-finals, Alex added: "It would not worry me if we get Chelsea in the quarter-finals because that would give me another chance to show what I am capable of as a player."

Ultimate10002000

09-03-2007, 08:50 PM

Terry aiming for FA Cup comeback

Chelsea captain John Terry is targeting a first-team return in time to lead the side in Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final against Tottenham.

Terry was knocked unconscious by an accidental kick in the head from Abou Diaby during the Carling Cup final and has not featured since.

That has forced Jose Mourinho to once again rely on Michael Essien as a makeshift centre-half alongside Ricardo Carvalho - a role the midfielder last filled during Terry's earlier fitness problems this season.

But the England skipper, who missed his side's 2-1 Champions League win over Porto in midweek, is hoping to put an end to that by making his comeback in the all-Premiership clash on Sunday.

"I've seen a specialist and passed all tests and he's given me the go-ahead to join training - but without contact at the moment," he told Chelsea TV.

Terry admitted his involvement was far from a foregone conclusion but admitted he was glad to be back with the squad.

"I'm aiming towards Sunday but first and foremost I need to come through the next couple of days.

"It's good to be involved again."

German midfielder Michael Ballack, meanwhile, believes the Spanish and English leagues have moved ahead of Italy and Germany as the top attractions in European football.

Ballack netted in the midweek 2-1 defeat of Porto which earned Jose Mourinho's team a place in the last eight of the Champions League.

He told his club's official website: "The experts around the German Bundesliga say that the best leagues are at the moment Spain and England. I think I agree with them.

"You can say yes, Italy and Germany are behind them.

"The best foreign players, they go to Spain and England because more and more that is the bigger challenge for those players. It is the better name.

"They want to go to Barcelona, Real Madrid, Manchester United or Chelsea at the moment.

"It is not just the money. They feel the challenge, they look to Spain and England. And those players might make the difference in the leagues.

"The big names are playing in Spain or in England."

Ultimate10002000

09-03-2007, 08:51 PM

Sheva denies Mourinho moan

Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko has denied giving an interview to a German website in which he appeared to criticise coach Jose Mourinho.

The £30million Ukrainian was reported to have claimed he was made a scapegoat by Mourinho when the Portuguese manager's own relationship with Roman Abramovich broke down.

But in a statement released by Chelsea, Shevchenko insists the interview was a complete fabrication.

Shevchenko declared: "This is complete rubbish. I have never spoken to this German website or to the journalist who claims to have interviewed me."

The club statement continued: "The only official comments from Andriy appear on the Chelsea website, his own website or in interviews organised by the club, his sponsors or official pre or post-match press conferences.

"Andriy and Chelsea FC will now be considering what further action to take."

The German website claimed Shevchenko said: "It's true I have complained about Mourinho, but there are a lot of things which drove me to that.

"A few months ago I suddenly became his dartboard because he was having a spat with the president at the time."

Shevchenko has admitted that Abramovich was the driving force behind his move from Milan, saying: "The manager never spoke to me or played me in the position where my strengths lie.

"It's also no secret that I was more on Mr Abramovich's wish list than the manager's.

"In the transfer talks, Mr Mourinho seemed positive and happy at first.

"A manager should be objective and not take it out on a player. For the first time in my career a manager said in public that I did not completely fit in with his plan.

"That's not exactly great motivation. If he thinks that why am I here?

"One on one with me he cleared the matter up and said his opinion had been twisted. But inside it still bothers me.

"I don't like arguing but I don't forget things either. If the club boss asks me again what I think of the manager then I'll speak for me personally."

Shevchenko then went on to make it clear what he thinks of Mourinho, saying: "Mourinho is a very good manager, but I don't fit into his system. In any event I know it can't carry on like that.

"Our relationship is professional. Nothing more nothing less. He is a tactical fox and has strict beliefs, but I've had better managers."

Ultimate10002000

09-03-2007, 08:51 PM

Chelsea face Los Che in quarters

Chelsea have been handed the most difficult draw of the English sides after being paired with Valencia in the Champions League quarter-finals.

The Blues will travel to the Mestalla for the second leg, while Premiership rivals Manchester United were drawn against Italian outfit Roma.

Liverpool were handed a plum draw against Dutch side PSV Eindhoven. Both United and Liverpool will play the second leg of their ties at home.

AC Milan will host Bayern Munich at the San Siro before a second leg in Bavaria.

Former Chelsea defender Asier del Horno, now with Valencia, could take on his former club in the quarter-final.

If Jose Mourinho's men progress, they will face the winners of the PSV v Liverpool tie in the semi-finals. Chelsea would be at home for the second leg.

Quarter-final first-leg matches are scheduled for April 3/4, with the return matches on April 10/11.

Semi-final ties are to be played on April 24/25 and May 1/2.

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon was glad to avoid other Premiership sides.

He said: "Firstly, we're glad to be here. The draw keeps the English teams away from each other until the next round. It's good for the teams in it and for the competition.

"I guess the only thing you would say is you would rather be at home in the second leg but at this stage, you've got to go with the draw. Overall, we're happy with the draw.

"This is a big competition, we've done well in it but never got to the final. The team is doing well and if you look at the teams in it at this stage, we stand a good chance."

Regarding the possibility of meeting PSV - and defender Alex, who it has been alleged is part-owned by Chelsea - in the semi-final, Kenyon added on Sky Sports News: "He (Alex) is their player, we have got an option to sign him at the end of the season.

"He is their player, he is certainly eligible if we both get through to the next round."

widman01

10-03-2007, 01:33 AM

thanks ultimate10002000 for posting news....

Ultimate10002000

10-03-2007, 07:35 PM

Liverpool rematch doesn't worry Jose

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho insists he is not concerned by the prospect of a semi-final rematch with Liverpool in the Champions League.

The Blues were drawn against Valencia in the last eight of the competition and face the winners of Liverpool's tie with PSV Eindhoven in the semi-finals.

That could mean Chelsea taking on Liverpool in a repeat of their Champions League clash of two seasons ago when Mourinho's side were defeated by a controversial winning goal.

But Mourinho said: "The semi-final can be many things. It could be PSV and Valencia.

"If you told me now I was in the semi-final and we play Liverpool I would sign that contract now because it means we have beaten Valencia and that is the difficult part of the job.

"To beat Liverpool in the semi-final or to beat PSV, it is the same feeling.

"In this case, we play a very good Spanish team but it is in a month and a lot of things can happen.

"Before the games, there are two international matches and this is something very difficult to deal with because instead of preparing for a very big Champions League quarter-final, I will be on my own at Cobham, praying for my players to be back safe from the national team."

Ultimate10002000

10-03-2007, 07:36 PM

I am sure Chelsea will be more ready to face Liverpool this time round. Having face them so many times already.

Ultimate10002000

10-03-2007, 07:37 PM

Lampard: DD on a different level

Chelsea star Frank Lampard says prolific striker Didier Drogba has raised his game "to a different level" this season.

The Ivory Coast international has smashed 29 goals in all competitions so far and is on course to become the first Chelsea player since Kerry Dixon to score 30 in a season.

Drogba's sensational season has seen him crowned African Player of the Year and silence the boo-boys who once slammed the £24million acquisition as a diver and a cheat.

And Lampard admits the 29-year-old hitman has 'got everything', saying: "You can understand why people say we rely on him. I hope he stays fit because he's such an important player.

"He has taken it to a different level this year. He's got everything; pace, power, scoring goals, making goals, heading clear from his own box.

"He's also a big personality. He's a mature man and he talks - on the pitch and in the dressing room."

Lampard, meanwhile, admits his favourite goals for the Blues were the two he scored at Bolton's Reebok Stadium to clinch the Premiership title two seasons ago.

The England midfielder added in Zoo Magazine: "My favourite goals ever are the ones at Bolton that clinched the title for us the first time, for obvious reasons. The fact they won us the Premiership - and the celebrations that went with it - makes them special.

"I get a tingle even now whenever I see them being replayed. When a goal does that to you, it's special. They'll be my favourite goals forever, no matter what else happens."

Ultimate10002000

10-03-2007, 07:38 PM

Frankly speaking i am very impress with drogba this season as he really perform very well so far, scoring so many goals and helping chelsea win many crucial matches. Finally he has prove his value.

Ultimate10002000

10-03-2007, 07:39 PM

Jose needs to win big one - Ranieri

Jose Mourinho's future as Chelsea boss could hinge on success in this season's Champions League, according to his predecessor Claudio Ranieri.

The Italian was replaced by Mourinho in 2004 after seeing his side fall at the semi-final stage of Europe's premier club competition - eventually won by the Portuguese's Porto team that year.

Now Ranieri, currently manager of Parma in Serie A, has warned Mourinho he may face the same fate unless he tastes glory in Athens this May.

"In the Premier League it was impossible for me to beat Arsenal because in my final season the Gunners never lost a game," Ranieri told the Daily Mirror.

"It's the same now for Mourinho - Manchester United are very strong. But you're expected to win trophies as Chelsea manager.

"It's important for Mourinho's future to win the Champions League. Then it is difficult to get rid of a successful manager.

"Winning the Champions League in that final year could have saved me at Chelsea, who knows?"

The Blues were drawn against Spanish side Valencia in the Champions League quarter-finals on Friday, with a possible semi clash against Liverpool to follow.

With the likes of Real Madrid and holders Barcelona already out of the competition, Ranieri believes Mourinho is well-placed to finish the job he began at Stamford Bridge alongside owner Roman Abramovich.

"I started the construction of the new house with Abramovich at Chelsea and he's completing the job," he added. "However, nobody is blind and Mourinho's results show he's a great trainer.

"This season it seems Chelsea are more interested in winning in Europe than in England and they have a great chance.

"The squad is building up to win an important title and, with Manchester United so strong in the Premier League, I think the Champions League is the ideal finishing line this season for Chelsea.

"With prestigious opponents like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Arsenal eliminated, Chelsea are in a great position to enter in the football history."

Ultimate10002000

10-03-2007, 07:40 PM

Blues blank Terry contract reports

Chelsea have chosen not to comment on Saturday newspaper reports that contract negotiations with captain John Terry have collapsed.

Terry may return from his horror head injury to face Tottenham in the FA Cup quarter-final at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

If he is unable to agree a new deal with the Blues Terry could use FIFA rules to buy out the two years left on his current deal, which is worth a reported £90,000-a-week.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho insisted on Friday that the club would do all it could to keep its English stars.

Mourinho said: "We are in a good situation, we don't have players whose contracts end this summer.

"We don't have to make quick decisions about players who are in their last year.

"Everybody knows about the players we want to keep and Chelsea will do everything they can to keep them.

"In the case of John and Frank Lampard and other players, Chelsea will do everything to make them stay."

Meanwhile Kenyon says the club are hopeful that Lampard will re-sign soon.

Kenyon added: "We have had some initial discussions. Clearly he has two years left on his contract and we would expect him to enter into serious negotiations quickly with us and hopefully re-sign him for the future as we see Frank as a long term player."

Ultimate10002000

10-03-2007, 07:44 PM

Hopefully this contract negotiation thing will come to a good end soon. Both terry and lampard are crucial players to the team, this better be sort out as soon as possible.

ceLsius

10-03-2007, 09:17 PM

Frankly speaking i am very impress with drogba this season as he really perform very well so far, scoring so many goals and helping chelsea win many crucial matches. Finally he has prove his value.

I hope to see more goals coming from other departments than drogba. :D

Ultimate10002000

11-03-2007, 12:31 PM

Cole sets date for Chelsea return

Joe Cole has promised Jose Mourinho he will return for Chelsea by the time they take on Valencia in the Champions League next month.

Cole has been out for most of the season with a stress fracture of the foot and underwent surgery in a bid to cure the problem.

Mourinho was resigned to losing the England midfielder for the rest of the season but Cole now looks set to time his return perfectly as Chelsea face the Spanish side in the last eight of the Champions League.

Mourinho said: "Joe Cole told me that he will be ready for Valencia. The fact that he is saying that will push him. So if not for Valencia maybe for the next week after that. Now he has a target and for me that is good.

"Joe was a key player last season . It was the best season of his life and he was crucial from the first moment to the last. He had an unbelievable season. This season he has had five minutes here and there, and finally surgery and out for a long time."

Chelsea will look to reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup against Spurs on Sunday - knowing that it will only add to their growing fixture pile-up.

If Chelsea or Manchester United reach the last four, then their Premiership game scheduled for April 15 will be moved to the last week of the season.

But Mourinho took his mind off the clash with Spurs with his usual Friday kick-about with son and his schoolmates at home.

Mourinho revealed he winds down every Friday by playing football in his back garden with stones for goalposts and Jose junior demanding to play against his dad.

While Spurs counterpart Martin Jol tours London art galleries looking at Dutch art, Mourinho takes his mind off the pressure with a carefree knockabout.

Mourinho explained: "I don't know Martin but maybe he has older kids than I have. When they are older they like to spend more time with boyfriends and girlfriends than their parents. My time for that hasn't arrived yet. They are 10 and eight - they still want to spend time with me and my wife.

"For example, every Friday, every boy from my kid's class, goes to my house. There are not many, there are only seven. They go to my house and we have a game. I play too. My son does not want to play with me, he wants to be on the other side.

"It is four against four and it lasts until they are tired and go back to their playstations. My wife takes them to my house when school finishes and when the game is over around five or six pm, their families pick them up.

"On Mondays after school they have an extra activity and they choose football. I go to watch on Mondays and on Fridays they come to my house.

"I play for a draw. I want them all to be happy. It is fantastic."

Ultimate10002000

15-03-2007, 08:30 PM

Abramovich split 'won't affect Blues'

Roman Abramovich is set to divorce his wife, but insists the situation will not have an impact on his ownership of Chelsea.

Abramovich is splitting with wife Irina, and according to The Sun the settlement is likely be the world's biggest ever.

The tabloid says Irina could have pocketed a staggering £5.5billion - half the oil tycoon's total fortune. That would dwarf the current record payout of £1billion.

Abramovich's spokesman John Mann announced the end of the 16-year marriage in a statement.

He said: "Mr and Mrs Abramovich have divorced in Russia on a consentual basis and have agreed terms in respect of arrangements for their children and a financial settlement.

"Mr Abramovich's corporate interests, including Chelsea Football Club, are not affected. Mr and Mrs Abramovich would appreciate it if the family's privacy would be respected."

Mr Mann would not disclose any other details about the divorce, or when it was granted.

He also refused to discuss which partner had issued the proceedings or how much Irina had received.

Ultimate10002000

15-03-2007, 08:32 PM

Jose and Lamps in Real rumours

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho will reportedly join Real Madrid this summer, if they agree to sign midfielder Frank Lampard as well.

Mourinho's tenure at Stamford Bridge appeared to become even more precarious earlier this week when he admitted he'd love to coach the Spanish giants one day.

And now The Sun claims the Portuguese special one will move to the Spanish capital, as long as England midfielder Lampard goes with him.

The tabloid claims Mourinho is resigned to leaving Chelsea this summer and wants to build a Real side around the 28-year-old Lampard.

Chelsea have been trying to sign Lampard to a lengthy contract extension, but so far talks have stalled.

The player could in theory buy out the last two years of his Blues contract for £8million under FIFA rules.

Lampard has been strongly linked with Real's bitter rivals Barcelona in the past, but now it looks like Madrid could be his final destination.

And the fact he has a Spanish fiancee could make a move to La Liga even more likely.

Real fans meanwhile are keen on the possibility of Mourinho taking over. A poll of 41,000 saw 55 per cent vote 'yes' to the Chelsea boss replacing Fabio Capello.

Ultimate10002000

15-03-2007, 08:33 PM

I certainly dont wish to see this happen.

Ultimate10002000

15-03-2007, 08:34 PM

Special One is Bernabeu-bound

TEAMtalk's Chris Burton feels there is another divorce on the cards at Chelsea, with Jose Mourinho set to join Real Madrid in the summer.

Things are beginning to look less than rosy for Jose Mourinho down at the Bridge.

His confession that he would be "honoured" to manage Real Madrid at some point in the future appears to have been the signal for Roman Abramovich to put the P45 in the post, and the chances of 'The Special One' continuing to rule over the Kings Road next season are getting increasingly remote.

Chelsea supremo Red Rom, about to be £5.5billion out of pocket due to his imminent divorce if reports are to be believed, is unlikely to be in the mood to idly stand by and watch as his employee openly touts himself to another club. Relations between the two have already been stretched to breaking point in recent times, and this may prove to be the final nail in the Portugese coach's coffin.

There was a time when Abramovich could be seen at every Chelsea game and he was a regular visitor to the team dressing room.

Recently, though, he has been absent from a number of matches and he hasn't shown his face in the dressing room for months. His differences with the current management are likely to be the main reason for his staying away.

Things have got so bad it now appears that even if Mourinho were to lead the club to an improbable and historic quadruple, Abramovich's roubles will be lining someone else's pockets next year.

In his short managerial career before arriving at Chelsea, Mourinho had spent no more than two and half seasons at any one club. He is a man who continually wants to challenge himself and set himself new goals to work towards. Therefore, there was never likely to be much chance of him sticking around until the end of his contract in 2010 anyway. That just isn't his style.

He arrived at Stamford Bridge blowing his own trumpet and telling tall tales of how he was the answer to Chelsea fans' prayers. To be fair, he has been as good as his word. He has been a breath of fresh air and is a welcome change to the dour-faced bosses the English game has become accustomed to.

Back-to-back Premiership titles, two League Cup triumphs and a Community Shield have represented a golden age at the club. If he were to land the Champions League this season, and at present there seems every chance that he could, there would be nothing left for him to prove.

Therefore, relieving Mourinho of his current duties is unlikely to cause him a great deal of stress, and could actually end up doing the club more harm than good.

Mourinho would be the ideal choice to be the new ring master at the Real Madrid circus, and the job would undoubtedly provide him with the greatest test of his managerial skills. He would revel in the pressure, and if anyone can bring glory back to the Bernabeau, it will be him.

The problem for Chelsea, however, will be how many of his current flock would follow their mentor to Spain?

Frank Lampard is currently stalling over a new contract, could do with a new challenge and his Spanish fiancee would surely welcome the move back home.

John Terry is apparantly unhappy about not being offered a contract which would keep him at the club for life, and despite having Chelsea flowing through his blood, he has been one of Mourinho's biggest supporters and would jump at the chance to continue working with him.

Arjen Robben has already been linked with a move to La Liga in the summer, and would provide the pace and flair which Madrid currently lack. There is no doubt Mourinho would welcome him with open arms.

Ironically, the man who will be making way for Mourinho at Los Blancos is likely to be one of the names linked with the Stamford Bridge hotseat. Like Mourinho, Fabio Capello doesn't tend to stay in one place for too long. Although this time his departure will be forced upon him, he has spent a career moving from club to club.

Admittedly wherever he has been, success has tended to follow, so Chelsea could do a lot worse than appoint the Italian.

For the time being, though, Mourinho is way too professional to take his eye off the ball and Chelsea should go close in all four competitions they are still challenging for.

The end of an era is nigh, though, and next season the Senor Mourinho roadshow will roll into Madrid. Who goes with him remains to be seen, but expect success to be not too far behind.

j20_sg

15-03-2007, 08:34 PM

smaller transfer budget now i guess since abramovich is in **** himself. lol

Ultimate10002000

15-03-2007, 08:35 PM

Spot-on Lampard cuts United lead

Frank Lampard's first-half penalty earned Chelsea a 1-0 victory at Manchester City to close the gap on leaders Manchester United to six points.

The England midfielder sent Manchester City goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson the wrong way from the spot in the 28th minute after Micah Richards had been punished for tripping Salomon Kalou.

Lampard in the process prolonged City manager Stuart Pearce's misery - this was his side's fifth successive league defeat.

City had been keen to win over their supporters after a miserable run which also included an FA Cup exit at the hands of Blackburn.

They started well with Joey Barton latching onto a clearance from the returning John Terry in the sixth minute, only to fire his effort high over the crossbar.

Emile Mpenza, making his first start for City, linked up well with Stephen Ireland three minutes later. However the move broke down when the Belgian striker strayed into an offside position for the return ball.

Play switched back down the other end and Arjen Robben took up a good position in the 12th minute but failed to test Isaksson.

City midfielder Dietmar Hamann was then given a talking to by referee Alan Wiley for clipping Claude Makelele's heels.

Ireland tried to release Mpenza in the 19th minute but Ashley Cole made a timely intervention.

Chelsea were taking their time to get going and Lampard tried to release Michael Ballack in the penalty area, only to overhit the pass and see the move break down.

A minute later Ireland pounced on a loose ball but snatched at his shot and saw it clear the bar.

Yet it was Chelsea who made the breakthrough in the 28th minute when Lampard struck from the spot after Richards' misdemeanour.

The young England defender pleaded his innocence after a foolish challenge but Lampard ignored the fuss with a cool finish.

It was just the boost Chelsea needed in their bid to close the gap on United.

Barton made a vain appeal for a penalty in the 31st minute after going to ground following a challenge from Makelele.

City were refusing to lie down and Barton flashed a shot across the face of Peter Cech's goal in the 39th minute.

Chelsea, however, remained dangerous on the counter attack with Kalou, Didier Drogba and Robben always looking for openings.

Barton was putting in a hard shift and swung in a corner in the 43rd minute which was cleared to safety.

Darius Vassell tried to pick out Mpenza in the 48th minute but Cole showed good vision to make the interception.

City captain Richard Dunne went on a lung-busting run in the 54th minute and got a huge cheer from the fans for winning a corner.

Dunne has questioned the attitude of some of his team-mates and the supporters seem to be on his side.

Lampard almost added a second for Chelsea in the 56th minute after Robben had sprung the offside trap - the England midfielder chipped the ball over Isaksson but Richards came to the rescue to clear the danger.

Chelsea stepped up the pace and Kalou worked his way into the area, only for Dunne to make a good block.

Hamann was then booked in the 60th minute after leaving Ivory Coast striker Drogba hobbling on the touchline.

City boss Pearce decided to freshen things up in the 63rd minute, bringing on Ishmael Miller for Sun Jihai.

The worry for the manager must have been that his side had not tested Cech going into a crucial stage of the game.

Vassell had endured a frustrating time and was replaced in the 72nd minute by Georgios Samaras.

Former City winger Shaun Wright-Phillips was then given a warm reception by the City of Stadium support when he came on for Robben five minutes later.

He almost extended Chelsea's lead within 60 seconds, his fierce drive from 25 yards coming back off the bar.

City were making a decent fist of it, however, and Barton dragged a shot wide in the 81st minute after linking up with Ireland.

Then in stoppage-time Richards saw his close-range header taken cleanly by Cech before Isaksson blocked Ballack's effort.

Ultimate10002000

15-03-2007, 08:35 PM

Well done chelsea for winning this game.

Ultimate10002000

15-03-2007, 08:36 PM

Clarke praises 'immense' Lamps

Steve Clarke hailed Frank Lampard's "immense" contribution to Chelsea's cause after his 20th goal of the season sank Manchester City.

Lampard kept alive Chelsea's hopes of a third successive title when he scored the winner from the penalty spot in the 1-0 victory against struggling City.

The England midfielder sent goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson the wrong way in the 28th minute after Micah Richards had been punished for tripping Salomon Kalou.

It meant Chelsea moved to within six points of league leaders Manchester United with their sixth successive league victory.

Blues number two Clarke said: "Frank's goal-scoring contribution is immense. To score 20 goals at this stage of the season for a midfielder is a marvellous achievement.

"We are all aware what a vital member of the squad he is."

Chelsea now entertain Sheffield United on Saturday in confident mood.

Clarke said: "It closes the gap to six points and that was the objective before the game. Now let's see what happens at the weekend.

"We are happy even if it is not always possible to get to the levels you want to achieve.

"Manchester City made it very difficult for us. They are fighting for their lives in the division and we knew it would be a tough game.

"They huffed and puffed but I do not think they had a shot on target."

It was City's fifth straight league defeat but manager Stuart Pearce was heartened by the performance.

He had seen his side jeered by the fans at Ewood Park on Sunday when they went down to Blackburn in the FA Cup.

Pearce said: "We came into this game after losing in the cup and sometimes it is harder to play in front of your own fans when things are not going well.

"People are also telling me this club is split down the middle but this display showed otherwise.

"I was pleased with the endeavour we showed.

"We are bitterly disappointed we lost the game and felt we should have got something out of it.

"We have got 10 matches to go and must make sure we take that endeavour into the weekend."

Ultimate10002000

16-03-2007, 09:27 PM

Warnock is a big fan of Mourinho

The Premiership would be a poorer place without Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, according to Sheffield United boss Neil Warnock.

Warnock takes his Blades to Stamford Bridge on Saturday looking to do what no other side has so far been able to achieve - win a league match on Chelsea's home turf since Mourinho has been in charge.

The Portuguese coach has been quite outspoken during more than two and a half years in England but his success in leading the club to back-to-back Premier League titles has only increased his reputation after winning the Champions League with Porto.

Clubs in Spain and Italy continue to be linked with making a move for Mourinho, who has a contract with Chelsea until 2010, but Warnock is keen to see him stay.

"No disrespect to Sir Alex Ferguson (Manchester United manager) and Arsene Wenger (Arsenal) but I think it was a two-horse race in the years before Mourinho came," said Warnock.

"He has ruffled a few feathers and I think it has been great for English football.

"Yes he is a bit too good looking but other than that there is nothing much wrong with him."

Critics argue Mourinho has been greatly assisted by the personal wealth of Chelsea's billionaire owner Roman Abramovich but Warnock believes that does the Blues boss a great disservice.

"It is all right having millions and millions to spend but you have to motivate players on that sort of money and get the resolve and team spirit he has obviously got," added the Blades manager.

"I think that has come from John Terry and Frank Lampard - that spine of English players - and he has milked it and why not. They are good players and it has rubbed off on the rest.

"You don't win two championships just because you are the highest-paid players. You have to have that desire and he controls it.

"He accepts he has got more money than anyone else and he has spent it - and quite rightly so.

"But if he had no money, like he did at Porto, you go in with the players you have got and try to get the best out of it and he managed to win something called the European Cup with Porto on peanuts.

"I think the challenge, whether it be Sunday League football right through to the Premiership, is to get the best out of the team you have got and that applies to every manager at every level."

Ultimate10002000

16-03-2007, 09:27 PM

Lampard agent meets Juve chiefs

Frank Lampard's agent met with Juventus representatives on Thursday as the Italian giants entered the race to sign the Chelsea midfielder.

Steve Kutner was pictured with Juve's vice-president Roberto Bettega, and also reportedly met with the Serie A club's general manager Alessio Secco.

But Kutner has denied the meetings were about Lampard, whose future is up in the air after talks over a new contract at Stamford Bridge stalled.

He said: "Roberto and I have been good friends since Juve tried to sign Paul Ince before he went to Inter.

"He has come over to London to attend a series of meetings I have arranged with Premiership clubs regarding potential transfer deals and collaborations. There is no other agenda."

There has been much speculation about Lampard's future in recent weeks as under FIFA rules the England star can buy out the remaining two years of his contract at Chelsea in the summer, paving the way for a cut-price move.

And despite Kutner's denial, the meetings he has held have sparked a fresh round of reports that Lampard's future lies away from Stamford Bridge.

Real Madrid and Barcelona have both been linked with 28-year-old in recent days and Juve, who tried to sign him three years ago, appear to have now entered the fray.

Ultimate10002000

16-03-2007, 09:28 PM

Kalou urges Blues pair to sign up

Chelsea striker Salomon Kalou wants captain John Terry and midfielder Frank Lampard to follow Michael Essien and sign new Blues deals soon.

Terry and Lampard are both in the midst of contract negotiations but, so far, no agreement has been reached with the England pair.

Terry returned to first-team action in the 1-0 win over Manchester City on Wednesday night. It was his first game since being accidentally kicked unconscious by Arsenal's Abou Diaby in the Carling Cup final last month, while Lampard scored his 20th goal of the season with his match-winning penalty.

It cut Manchester United's lead at the top to just six points with Sir Alex Ferguson's side yet to visit Stamford Bridge.

Lampard converted the first-half spot-kick after Kalou had been brought down by one-time Chelsea transfer target Micah Richards.

The Ivory Coast international, who scored the late equaliser against Tottenham in the FA Cup quarter-final last Sunday, was delighted his fellow African Essien had signed a new deal which keeps him at Chelsea until 2012.

Now he says it would be a massive boost if Terry and Lampard did the same.

Kalou said: "Right now, Michael Essien is one of the best players in the team so it is very important to keep him for a long time and that goes for Lampard and Terry as well."

Kalou is hoping to continue his run of form against Sheffield United on Saturday after revealing that he has tried to model himself on boyhood hero Thierry Henry.

The Ivorian striker hopes he can go on to reach the same kind of level that the Arsenal striker has shown during his time in English football.

Kalou added: "He is a striker who has pace and technique. It is difficult to have this kind of striker. I have been following him since he was at Monaco - he is my type of player.

"You never know, maybe I can reach the same levels. I am never afraid of a challenge. With more chances at Chelsea, I can be a better player."

Essien missed the win over Manchester City with a knee injury although he should return for the clash with Sheffield United.

The Ghana international has been outstanding while deputising in defence for Terry.

However, the midfielder is hoping he can return to his more normal attacking tendencies against United, providing he can shake off his knock in time.

Essien said: "I am a midfielder now and I do think like a midfielder. So when I play centre-back I often get forward more sometimes than I should and have to release the ball and get back.

"I try to attack the ball first. I remember when I was a kid they used to tell us we have to get the ball first and I have that in my mind all the time. I really enjoy anywhere I play and anytime I see any space I try to attack it and get something out of it."

Ultimate10002000

16-03-2007, 09:30 PM

I wonder what could be the real reasons to keep terry and lampard from signing the new contracts. I thought they are very happy in the club.

Ultimate10002000

16-03-2007, 09:31 PM

Jose admits to January 'tension'

Jose Mourinho has admitted there were "tensions" at Chelsea when he was unable to bolster his squad in the January transfer window.

At the time, Mourinho repeatedly voiced his frustration at being unable to recruit despite injury problems that had shorn him of the likes of captain John Terry, goalkeeper Petr Cech and midfielder Joe Cole.

It was thought that the failure to move into the transfer market was down to a growing rift between Mourinho and owner Roman Abramovich, and the Portuguese boss has now spoken out in an attempt to provide clarity to the issue.

In an interview in Portuguese daily Correio de Manha, Mourinho said: "I admit that the period between the end of December and the whole month of January may have caused some tensions.

"The team was on the limits, I was forced into constant adaptations, although we were involved in every competition.

"There were problems to resolve and, given the owner's money, we had hoped they would be resolved, but this did not happen.

"The reasons given for the club not signing players were alleged differences with Abramovich, that he had stopped going to games, but no-one worried about finding out why.

"It was Christmas, he has family, and there could have been so many reasons, but people interpreted it as they wanted."

Despite rumours to the contrary, Mourinho also claimed he had a "very good personal relationship" with Frank Arnesen, who was brought in to oversee the development of Chelsea's scouting system.

But he added: "We have, here and there, our differences but each of us do our jobs separately."

Ultimate10002000

16-03-2007, 09:31 PM

Essien dilemma for Blues boss

Michael Essien's fitness is Jose Mourinho's major concern ahead of Chelsea's home Premiership clash with Sheffield United on Saturday.

Essien suffered a knee injury in the 3-3 FA Cup quarter-final draw with Tottenham and Mourinho may choose to rest him ahead of the replay on Monday.

Midfielder Joe Cole (foot) remains their only long-term absentee while Mikel John Obi is suspended.

Blues (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Diarra, Carvalho, Essien, Terry, Bridge, A Cole, Lampard, Makelele, Ballack, Drogba, Shevchenko, Kalou, Wright-Phillips, Boulahrouz.

Ultimate10002000

17-03-2007, 08:52 PM

Jose: Lamps and JT belong to Chelsea

Jose Mourinho has urged John Terry and Frank Lampard to stay at the club as he believes the duo "belong" to Chelsea's history and success.

The Portuguese coach says he has urged the pair to listen to their hearts before choosing whether to stay at the club but insists he will respect whatever decision they ultimately make.

England midfielder Lampard is currently waiting for a formal offer from the club but his agent, Steve Kutner, met with Juventus vice-president Roberto Bettega and their general manager Alessio Secco on Wednesday.

Kutner has since denied the conversation involved the future of his client but Lampard's contract situation is prompting a number of top European clubs to monitor his situation.

Meanwhile, Terry is reported to have been unhappy with the length and the terms of his contract extension offer. The England skipper wants pay parity with top earners Andriy Shevchenko and Michael Ballack at Stamford Bridge.

They are reported to be earning around £130,000-a-week and Terry is allegedly annoyed he has only been offered five years instead of his desired nine.

Mourinho has told the pair there is no reason for them to quit the club but insists he will not interfere with the decision-making process.

Mourinho declared: "I told them that what they have in their hearts is more important than any advice.

"I don't want to make decisions for players. I want to educate my kids to make their own decisions - good decisions but their own decisions.

"The players have families, wives and fathers. Their fathers and wives are more important than the manager. Their decision is their decision and I will always respect it.

"My opinion is they belong to Chelsea, they belong to Chelsea history. Chelsea's success and history is with them.

"So when people have such strong links and feelings and success together, there is no reason for a change.

"I would love to see them both be part of Chelsea history until the end. But if a player, and I am not talking just about those two, has another dream, wants to play in another country or club, then no, that is something I cannot interfere with.

"But I was very obvious with them to say I would love to see them stay in the club, especially if they are here until 2010, I would love to have them with me. They are special players and personalities."

Mourinho admits his role in trying to get the pair to commit themselves to the club on a long-term basis revolves around footballing and not financial issues.

He admits he spends a lot of time sitting and chatting to both players because of their status within the squad and says the club's decision to offer Michael Essien a new deal underlines their commitment to ensure the top players remain at Chelsea.

Mourinho added: "The club is always keen to do everything they can to keep the players we think are important for the future of the club.

"Essien is the latest example of that. He is a very important player for us, performing very well since he arrived. The club realised the player's numbers (wages) were a little bit out of context in relation to his performances.

"The club was happy and keen to give him what he deserves. He signed a new contract and he is a very important player for the club. The club is keen to make the player happy and be here for a long time.

"This is a process. It is not something you can do in two or three days. It takes time, with some players it takes more time, with some players it is easy.

"Sometimes it depends on the player, sometimes the agent. It is very important that the players really want to be with Chelsea and be part of Chelsea.

"I speak a lot with Lampard and Terry because they are captains and we sit together more times than with other players.

"I think I have found the correct word for Lamps when I said he was unique. No other midfield player has scored so many goals and football is about performance. He is the only one in Europe who does that and for me he is unique.

"My role in relation to contracts is the easiest role because I just have to do the obvious thing.

"I analyse the quality of the player in human and football terms and give my message to the club that the player is very important for Chelsea or not so important - or a player to keep or let go.

"I have relations with club and the player in these terms, but in the number part, one more zero, one less zero, that is not with me."

Ultimate10002000

17-03-2007, 08:53 PM

No more slip-ups, warns Mourinho

Jose Mourinho has admitted Chelsea cannot afford to lose another game if they are to overhaul Manchester United at the top of the Premiership.

The Blues are now just six points behind leaders United but Mourinho is lamenting the propsect they will not be able to reduce the gap yet further because of their possible involvement in the FA Cup semi-finals.

Chelsea and United are both expected to reach the last four of the competition and that means their Stamford Bridge showdown, currently set for April 15, will have to be rescheduled.

The prospect is an unpalatable one for the Chelsea chief, who knows they cannot afford to drop any more points.

Mourinho declared: "(United) have a few injuries but our situation is not improving. We have lost Wayne Bridge and Michael Essien - Bridge for three weeks or one month and Essien not for so long.

"I still think in relation to the Premiership, their position is better than ours. That is obvious. They have six points more but the good thing is that we are winning matches. I think in the last 27 or 28 matches in every competition, we have lost one. In the Premiership, we keep winning matches and keeping our hopes up in relation to the title.

"It is a pity we don't play Manchester United - it would be much better to play them now and have the chance to reduce the difference from six to three - after that everything would be open.

"They would be feeling the real heat. In this moment, we don't play against them because one of us will be in the FA Cup semi-final, or both or no-one.

"But there is a chance we don't play them. If we don't play them we have to wait for them to have a bad result but I still think they are in a better position than us.

"But at the same time my team is strong, has self-belief and we are ready to go all the way.

"The situation is in their hands. If they win every game, there is nothing we can change - nothing we can do."

But Mourinho bemoaned the fixture congestion his side is facing as they approach the most crucial part of the season - suggesting that the odds are stacked against an English team winning the Champions League as a result.

Mourinho added: "This period of April and May is unbelievable. I don't know how we can get into this situation.

"If you go to every other country involved in European competitions, they have a much better situation to deal with.

"I think it goes against the possibilities the English clubs have to succeed in Europe. We play against Valencia and we have two more matches to play than them in this period, so every team abroad can prepare and concentrate on the job for the Champions League and here it is very, very difficult.

"But if you tell me we play Manchester United in the FA Cup final and the Champions League final, I would be jumping with happiness and maybe Sir Alex would be the same because it means we go to the limits.

"But we have walls in front of us and we have to beat them. We have two big games in the FA Cup against Spurs and Blackburn first.

"I don't change my words - the next team to lose points will be in a difficult position. Six to eight or nine points is comfortable for them. Six to four or three for us is what we need for the extra bit of motivation to have in our pockets."

Ultimate10002000

17-03-2007, 08:54 PM

Mourinho wants Mak to take it easy

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho believes Claude Makelele should retire from international football to prolong his career at Stamford Bridge.

Makelele was back to his best in the 1-0 midweek victory over Manchester City but while Chelsea respect his decision to continue playing for France, Mourinho voiced his concern over the prospect of fatigue.

The France midfielder has one more year on his contract at present and Mourinho insists there is no reason to begin talking about a new one for at least another eight months.

The Portuguese boss will give the veteran 10 days off after their FA Cup semi-final against Tottenham on Monday night but Makelele will spend much of it as part of the France squad for their forthcoming internationals.

Mourinho made it perfectly clear he has no problems with the player's desire to carry on turning out for France but did suggest there was now an element of fatigue to be considered.

Mourinho declared: "One thing is Makelele playing for Chelsea and the other is Makelele playing for Chelsea and France.

"One thing for example is after the game against Tottenham in the FA Cup semi-final on Monday, I will give him 10 days off and he can go and relax, put energy into his batteries and be back strong to play.

"Another thing is that when a 34-year-old man should be resting, he is playing international matches. When he comes back to Chelsea it is not to play but to rest because one thing is being 24 and another is being 34.

"In my opinion, in this moment, we respect that he wants to play for the national team, it is his choice, it is his decision.

"We respect the fact his national team want him because he is a very good player. There is no conflict. We respect that.

"But he is not playing the number of matches for Chelsea he would normally be doing.

"He has still one more year left on his contract. There is no reason in March 2007 to think about July 2008 - it is too early, At his age, it is time to analyse his performance month after month and between November 2007 and March 2008, Chelsea should analyse his future.

"But in this moment he has one more year on his contract and he is in a safe situation.

"Chelsea is very happy to have Makelele. His last game was against Manchester City and he was the best player. But he didn't play the game before and that is the work we have to do with Makelele at this moment."

Ultimate10002000

17-03-2007, 08:55 PM

How come like a long time din hear anything about this player.

Ultimate10002000

18-03-2007, 10:46 AM

Mourinho won't count cup chickens

Jose Mourinho insists there is much work left for Chelsea to do before they can look forward to an FA Cup final with rivals Manchester United.

The Blues could face the current Premiership leaders in the final at the new Wembley provided they overcome Tottenham in Monday night's quarter-final replay and Blackburn in the last four, while United have to overcome Middlesbrough in their replay and Watford.

A late goal from substitute Salomon Kalou earned Chelsea a replay at White Hart Lane after Mourinho's men trailed 3-1 at half-time.

That scare has given Mourinho extra caution, instead of looking ahead to a showdown with Sir Alex Ferguson in the final.

"We have walls in front of us and we have to beat them. We have two big games in the FA Cup against Spurs and Blackburn first," he said.

"Spurs are a very good side - Dimitar Berbatov, his form is brilliant. I like playing against them. They have quality players.

"We survived in the first game and I will fight until the last moment to win it. I think we are happier than them.

"They had everything in their hands and we had everything lost. The cup is special as is playing at Wembley. For our group, it is the only competition we have not won in English football. Everybody wants to win it."

Ultimate10002000

18-03-2007, 10:47 AM

Blues blunt Blades to keep bid alive

Chelsea eased their way to a routine 3-0 home win over Sheffield United to close within six points on Premiership leaders Manchester United.

The Blues warmed-up for Monday night's FA Cup quarter-final replay against Tottenham at White Hart Lane with an easy win - courtesy of goals from Andriy Shevchenko, Salomon Kalou and substitute Michael Ballack.

Struggling United were also hit by the loss of striker Rob Hulse who was taken to hospital with a suspected broken leg.

It was Chelsea's sixth successive victory in the Premiership since their defeat against Liverpool in January and their sixth clean sheet.

The success keeps them six points behind United at the Premiership summit and the result was never in doubt after Andriy Shevchenko put them in front after just three minutes.

The goal owed much to the power and vision of Chelsea centre-half Ricardo Carvalho who won the ball in his own half and burst through the middle before delivering a pin-point pass to the Ukraine striker on the edge of the United penalty area.

Shevchenko, often criticised for his lack of ball control this season, brought down Carvalho's pass with his right thigh and then despatched a glorious left-foot volley into the roof of the net.

The champions increased their advantage in the 16th minute when a cross from Shaun Wright-Phillips caused panic in the United defence.

The lurking Shevchenko helped the ball on and Salomon Kalou scored his second goal in three games with a simple tap-in.

But two minutes later the Blades gave Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech something to do when Colin Kazim-Richards unleashed a 25-yard drive that forced Czech international to punch clear.

United striker Rob Hulse tried his luck second later when he produced an ambitious overhead kick from a cross by Keith Gillespie, but his effort trickled wide of Cech's right-hand upright.

However, it was his last contribution as the striker was carried off with a suspected broken leg which he sustained when attempting to get on the end of cross from Gillespie.

It could have been even worse for United, in terms of the scoreline, in the 31st minute when a cross from Arjen Robben eluded their defence.

However, Shevchenko's goalbound shot was cleared off the line by Chris Armstrong.

United felt harshly treated moments later when they had a Claude Davis goal chalked off for handball inside the six-yard box and despite the loss of Hulse, the visitors were still causing Chelsea some concern.

Kazim-Richards proved he was not afraid to shoot whenever the opportunity presented itself by testing Cech for a second time in the game.

But the Czech international once again proved to be immaculate in his timing as he went down to clutch the ball at the foot of the right-hand upright.

The home side were content to keep possession for long periods and should have made it three seconds before the interval but Frank Lampard just failed to make the most of a cross by Wright-Phillips.

The game re-started with Chelsea having replaced Frank Lampard with Michael Ballack during the interval.

And it was the Germany international who came closest to adding to Chelsea's lead in the second half when he sent a 25-yard effort just wide of Paddy Kenny's right-hand post in the 53rd minute.

But Ballack had better luck four minutes later after Robben was fouled by Gillespie on the left flank.

Wright-Phillips swung over the free-kick and Ballack rose highest to glance a header into the net from six yards.

Just when United must have thought their afternoon could not get any worse, Mourinho elected to send on top scorer Didier Drogba in place of Shevchenko in the 65th minute.

The Ukrainian was given a standing ovation as he left the field for his outstanding display.

Left-back Ashley Cole was also replaced by Paulo Ferreira as Mourinho looked to rest as many of his players as possible before the FA Cup quarter-final replay.

Moments later Chelsea almost made it four when Wright-Phillips sent 20-yard low drive just wide of the target.

But Chelsea were more than content to see out the end of the contest and resorted to lengthy spells of possession but without the penetration they demonstrated so effectively for much of the game.

It was of little consequence to Mourinho who would have been pleased by the way his players conserved their energies for Monday's all-important replay with Tottenham.

Ultimate10002000

18-03-2007, 10:47 AM

Well done Chelsea for winning this match.

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:23 PM

Sheva shines as Spurs are beaten

Chelsea are through to the FA Cup semi-finals after wonder strikes from Andrei Shevchenko and Shaun Wright-Phillips in a 2-1 win over Spurs.

Shevchenko and Wright-Phillips struck in the second half of the quarter-final replay at White Hart Lane to get Jose Mourinho within sight of the only trophy he has not won in the English game.

Robbie Keane pulled a goal back for the hosts with a penalty but he could not take his record of scoring in every round of this season's cup into the last four.

Spurs were ultimately undone by goals of genuine quality, Shevchenko's quite clearly his finest since arriving in London.

It was only his 12th strike since the Community Shield at the start of the campaign but offered a reminder of why Chelsea parted with more than £30million for his services.

The Ukraine striker has saved his best performances for the knockout competitions and his goal had the hallmarks of the kind of strikes he regularly executed at AC Milan.

Then came Wright-Phillips' volley, giving Steve McClaren in the stands a glimpse of what England are missing without him in the squad.

As nervous before the game as the two sets of supporters was McClaren, who watched on as five of his squad for the upcoming European Championship qualifiers started and Jermain Defoe was on the bench.

But it was the foreign players who made an early impression in a frenetic start, Dimitar Berbatov showing his familiar neat touches which set up Keane to have a shot blocked.

At the other end, Chelsea were inches from taking the lead in the seventh minute. Ashley Cole, jeered by home supporters for being a former Arsenal player, hoisted the ball forward for Didier Drogba to chest down, but Michael Ballack's volley flew just wide.

It was two Englishmen not in McClaren's squad, however, who looked to set themselves apart from the ferocious pace of the game.

Michael Dawson cleared a host of Chelsea attacks with his head and Wright-Phillips, recalled to the starting XI for Arjen Robben, fizzed a shot over in the 17th minute.

As is the way with tense cup ties, strong challenges were committed by both teams, Ricardo Carvalho timing one to perfection when Keane had a sight of goal.

Lassana Diarra mis-timed one on Aaron Lennon and was booked, while Drogba earned a yellow card after his reaction to fouling Ricardo Rocha.

A player left out of McClaren's squad, Jermaine Jenas, was proving dangerous with his deliveries from dead-balls.

His corner had to be clawed around the post by Petr Cech midway through the half, and Dawson headed over the resulting set-piece.

Jenas then threatened from open play but Keane and Berbatov were just a yard off his fiercely-struck cross from the right.

Cole powered a shot at goal five minutes before the break but it deflected to safety off a team-mate, with the first half drawing to an end with neither goalkeeper making a significant save.

Cech, however, was called into action in the 49th minute when Jenas' corner found its way to the far post and Pascal Chimbonda volleyed on target but too close to Chelsea's goalkeeper.

Steed Malbranque forced a more urgent save two minutes later with a drilled effort from the edge of the area.

But Chelsea were ahead in the 55th minute through Shevchenko's stunning opener.

There appeared to be little danger when the Ukraine striker picked the ball up on the right flank but, with the angles getting tighter, he unleashed his left-footed rocket into the far top corner.

The lead was doubled just after the hour mark, Drogba trapping a long ball with his chest for Wright-Phillips to volley home first time.

The two goals were good enough to win any cup tie but Spurs set up a dramatic finale when Berbatov was fouled by Carvalho when closing in on goal.

The Portugal centre-back only got a yellow card, with Keane sending Cech the wrong way with the penalty.

After the final whistle a fan ran onto the pitch and attempted to throw a punch at Chelsea's Frank Lampard, before being tackled by stewards and arrested.

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:24 PM

Well done Chelsea. Keep up the good work.

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:24 PM

Savage welcomes underdog tag

Blackburn's Robbie Savage claims all the pressure will be on Chelsea to seal a place in the first FA Cup final at the new Wembley stadium.

The Welsh midfielder believes Rovers' status as underdogs could help turn their dreams of winning the semi-final into reality.

Savage told the Lancashire Telegraph: "I think people within the game want to see a Chelsea versus Manchester United final but we actually think it would be great to see Blackburn versus Watford at the new Wembley!

"Chelsea will obviously start the semi-final as favourites, but it's a one-off game at Old Trafford, so who knows what could happen?

"If we defend well and Brad (Friedel) plays well then we are perfectly capable of nicking one at the other end with players like Benni McCarthy in the team.

"No-one expected Cameroon to beat Argentina at the World Cup in 1990, and who would have predicted Wrexham beating Arsenal in the FA Cup when Mickey Thomas scored the winner?

"The history books are full of shocks like that and we've got to believe we can produce another.

"Most of the country will want us to win because we are the underdogs. At the end of the day, there's no pressure on us because no-one's expecting us to win.

"All the pressure is on Chelsea because they're expected to reach the final."

Savage broke his leg against Watford in January but could return in time for the end of the season.

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:25 PM

Dutch duo miss training session

Marco van Basten was without Arjen Robben and John Heitinga for Wednesday's training session ahead of Saturday's qualifier against Romania.

Heitinga, recovering from a slight leg injury, and Robben, who complained of a knee problem after Tuesday's practice, worked away from the group on individual programmes as a precautionary measure.

AZ Alkmaar's Tim de Cler returned to full training after sitting out Tuesday's session.

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:26 PM

Lamps 'shocked' by fan attack

Frank Lampard hopes lessons can be learned from the ugly scenes at the end of Chelsea's FA Cup quarter-final replay victory at White Hart Lane.

A Tottenham fan ran on to the pitch and aimed a punch at Lampard although he was quickly restrained following the Blues' 2-1 victory which saw them advance to the semi-finals on Monday night.

The supporter, an 18-year-old from Slough, will appear at Haringey Magistrates next week after being charged with encroaching on to the pitch.

Spurs have given the supporter a lifetime ban from White Hart Lane and have given Chelsea the details of another fan who made it on to the pitch.

Now the England player is keen to look forward rather than dwell on the incident.

"It was disappointing," Lampard told Sky Sports News.

"You enjoy celebrating a win and when something like that happens it shocks you.

"I think when a couple of days pass and you don't see it on the front of the papers and everything, then maybe it will just be something that hopefully can be put right and not happen again."

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:26 PM

No FA action after Lane fracas

The FA have confirmed there will be "no formal disciplinary action" against any players involved in restraining a pitch invader on Monday.

The FA have studied video footage of the incident in Monday's White Hart Lane clash between Spurs and Chelsea, where two supporters entered the field of play, one from each club, sparking a post-match fracas.

An FA spokesman said: "We have looked at all the available video footage and there will be no formal disciplinary action against any players."

The governing body had already spoken to Tottenham and obtained video footage from various outlets, including BBC and Sky, which showed players restraining a Spurs fan who aimed a punch at Frank Lampard as the Chelsea players celebrated their win.

Timothy Smith, the 18-year-old Tottenham supporter, is set to appear at Haringey Magistrates next week after being charged with encroaching onto the pitch while Byron Wilkinson, the Chelsea fan who also ran onto the pitch after the game, was cautioned by police.

Meanwhile, Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho admits he has been left frustrated by the decision to reschedule their potential title showdown with Manchester United.

Chelsea, who are currently six points adrift of United at the top of the Premiership, were due to meet them at Stamford Bridge on April 15, but as both teams reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup, the game will now take place on May 9.

However, United's lead is such that Sir Alex Ferguson's side could have wrapped up their first title in four years by then.

Mourinho said: "What can I do? I cannot lose a game to play Manchester United earlier in the season.

"Everything in this league went against us from the beginning - injuries, decisions and fixtures.

"We played a Carling Cup final and had to play one game in hand afterwards and now we have the United game, which we want to play now, later on.

"We also have to play West Ham away and Newcastle away in the same week because of the congestion in the fixtures."

Meanwhile Ukrainian Andriy Shevchenko has hailed his superb strike against Spurs as "one of the best of my career".

The goal put Chelsea on the way to a victory over their London rivals and was later sealed by a rare strike from Shaun Wright-Phillips.

Shevchenko arrived at Chelsea having netted a combined 267 times for his previous clubs - but he rates his 13th goal for Chelsea as among the best.

Shevchenko said: "I think it is one of the best I have scored in my career. I feel very much better now. It was a very good game and in the second half, the team played very well.

"For my career, it is important to win trophies like this. The cup in England is very important and different from Italy.

"I played in the old Wembley. It was a special stadium with a great atmosphere. I played two times, one with Dynamo Kiev against Arsenal and the other with the national team. To be in the first final in the new stadium would be a special moment."

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:27 PM

Rijkaard could be target for Roman

Chelsea have reportedly lined up Barcelona boss Frank Rijkaard to replace Jose Mourinho in the summer.

The former Holland coach has moved to the top of the Stamford Bridge shortlist to come in if Mourinho is sacked at the end of the season.

The 44-year-old's relationship with owner Roman Abramovich has deteriorated over the course of the current campaign, and it is expected that the Russian billionaire will sack the Portuguese coach.

Such is the discord between the pair, Abramovich is even believed to have considered sacking Mourinho before the end of this season, despite Chelsea still being involved in the Premiership title race, the FA Cup and the Champions League, having already won the Carling Cup.

According to The Independent, Rijkaard has been targeted by Abramovich to deliver the kind of attacking football that Barca have produced over the past few seasons to the Premiership.

Crucially, Rijkaard is also seen as a less confrontational figure than Mourinho, who has not been afraid of expressing his views and grievances.

The broadsheet also claims that Rijkaard heads a list that features, or has featured at various times, Sevilla boss Juande Ramos, Inter Milan coach Roberto Mancini, former Holland manager Guus Hiddink and Juventus coach Didier Deschamps.

Mourinho claimed before Chelsea's Champions League clash with Porto earlier in the season that he would not care if he was sacked, saying that he would walk away a millionaire and would find work almost immediately.

Indeed, reports on Thursday morning claim that he is in the frame to take over at Real Madrid, while his agent has apparently been sounded out by Inter, and will be in the frame should the managerial positions at Juventus or AC Milan become vacant in the summer.

Ultimate10002000

22-03-2007, 07:27 PM

I dont really want to see Mourinho leave Chelsea at the end of the season. Hopefully the dispute can be resolve soon.

Ultimate10002000

23-03-2007, 08:22 PM

Lippi plays down Chelsea rumours

Marcello Lippi has rejected suggestions that he has been offered the chance to take charge of Premiership champions Chelsea this summer.

The Italian has responded negatively to reports that he and former Blues boss Gianluca Vialli could become the new management team at Stamford Bridge.

Frank Rijkaard, Juande Ramos, Didier Deschamps, Guus Hiddink, Ronald Koeman and Roberto Mancini have all been strongly linked with Chelsea in recent months even though current coach Jose Mourinho continues to insist he is going nowhere and will see out his contract until 2010.

Now World Cup winning coach Lippi has made it clear that Chelsea have not made him an offer and that he harbours doubts about working abroad.

Lippi said: "These are just rumours and I hear many of those. The truth is that I haven't received any offers from Italian clubs, but only from foreign outfits, although Chelsea are not one of those.

"I am enjoying my time, I don't miss working and I might not start a new job this year."

Lippi is concerned about moving outside of Italy where the language problems can often be a hindrance to coaches.

He added: "The main issue is the language, perhaps it would be better to avoid foreign outfits."

Ultimate10002000

23-03-2007, 08:22 PM

Luca looking to return to Blues

Former Chelsea striker Gianluca Vialli could return to Stamford Bridge as assistant manager to Marcello Lippi, according to reports.

Vialli is interested in becoming part of an all-Italian 'managerial dream team' to replace Jose Mourinho.

Real Madrid have reportedly turned their sights on luring Mourinho in the summer.

Real were snubbed by first-choice Rafa Benitez on Thursday after he stated his intent on staying at Liverpool and it is now reported they will make a concrete move for Mourinho.

Officials from the Bernabeu have apparently contacted Mourinho's representative Jorge Mendes to sound him out about a move to Spain.

Despite concerns about his abrasive style, Real believe the Portuguese boss guarantees success and could smooth the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United.

Mourinho is known to have dismayed his Chelsea paymasters recently when he was quoted as saying he would "love to coach Real Madrid".

If - as looks likely - he does leave at the end of the season, the Blues' owner Roman Abramovich is thinking of trying to lure Vialli back to Stamford Bridge as right-hand man to World Cup-winning coach Lippi.

The combination is not the only option being discussed, but it is apparently seen as the best way to placate Chelsea fans who will be angered at Mourinho's departure.

Lippi has denied reports that he has already been offered the job at Stamford Bridge, but sources close to him have apparently confirmed a link-up with Vialli would be something he would be "very enthusiastic" about.

Ultimate10002000

25-03-2007, 11:15 AM

Blues star hopes to get at England

A player Jose Mourinho will elevate to his first-team squad next season is hoping for the chance to gun down's England's Euro 2008 dreams.

Israeli and Chelsea striker Ben Sahar is hoping to make his competitive international debut against Steve McClaren's side in Tel Aviv where, if selected, he will go head-to-head with Blues and England captain John Terry.

If Sahar gets the nod it will cap a remarkable season for the 17-year-old striker, who is highly rated by Chelsea boss Mourinho.

Sahar has just one full international to his name so far - a friendly appearance against Ukraine - as well as just two appearances for the Under 21s this season.

But his chances of playing against England have increased after Yaniv Katan withdrew with a cracked rib and a suspension for leading campaign scorer Roberto Colautti.

Katan has played in three of the four qualifiers so far while Colautti has been ever-present.

At Stamford Bridge, Sahar has progressed from the youths and reserves to a first team debut in January, becoming both Israel and Chelsea's youngest ever international in the process.

Sahar has so far made three substitute appearances for the Blues - the last of which came during the latter stages of their victory over Wigan in the Premiership in January.

Most players would be satisfied with such a season and the prospect of joining the first team squad at Chelsea next term, but Sahar is more cautious.

He said: "Sometimes I think maybe it is a little too fast. But the chance has come up and it is good for me.

"If you play for the first team of Chelsea, of course you like it but you have to keep in your mind that you are still young and there is a lot to improve.

"I am still young and I know every day in training I need to work hard. I am happy that the staff has given me the opportunity to play.

"I don't feel pressure here in Chelsea but in Israel, everyone knows me now and everyone expects that I will play good and there is a little bit of pressure from the media in Israel. But I have to control this and stay focused on the pitch."

Back home in Israel, Sahar's rise is mirrored by the country's national team.

An unbeaten, if ultimately unsuccessful qualification campaign for the last World Cup, was a clear sign that Israeli football was moving in the right direction.

They currently lie level with England in Euro 2008 qualification group E, three points behind leaders Croatia and Sahar added: "This is a big game for us because we know if we win, it will help a lot to go to the next round.

"If you don't think you have a chance, why are you playing? We think we have a chance, particularly at home with all our fans.

"The stadium in Tel Aviv is not a typical English stadium, the fans are a little bit far from the pitch, but it holds 45,000 and the atmosphere will be great because a lot of fans from Israel will come.

"Maybe England have a little bit of problems with the national team and maybe this is bad for us because you come, you want to fight, you come with 100% motivation. So this can be good or bad.

"We are not an easy team because we played against France and other big teams and we didn't lose."

There has been much banter on the training field between Sahar and Chelsea's England contingent but the Israeli striker will not be clowning around if he gets the chance to shine against them.

Sahar added: "Players like John Terry and Frank Lampard are very friendly but very professional. They speak about the game, and how it is going to be and how the standard is going to be.

"John Terry is a really good guy and helps me. But if I do play against England I will give my best against him."

Sahar was first spotted by Chelsea's academy chief scout Lee Congerton at an Israel youth international in Ireland and was invited over for a trial before being offered the chance to sign.

His mother was a national sprint and long jump champion at the age of 18 and both often come over and stay with him in England.

Sahar, targeted as a first team squad player for Chelsea next year, added: "All the time I thought Chelsea was the best club for me. I think I am suited to English football, that is why I came here. I think I am quick and strong."

Ultimate10002000

25-03-2007, 11:15 AM

Terry: Time for a big performance

Captain John Terry claims there is "a lot more to come" from England's players after admitting they have underachieved under Steve McClaren.

Terry insisted England can only be satisfied with victory against Israel on Saturday as they look to get their European Championship qualifying campaign back on track.

The Chelsea captain was left heart-broken by England's 2-0 defeat against Croatia in Zagreb five months ago, just four days after a woeful home goalless draw with Macedonia at Old Trafford.

Israel have a formidable home record and the 4-3 reversal against Croatia in November was their first in Tel Aviv for seven years.

But England's poor start to the group - they are currently lying in third spot - means Terry will accept nothing less than three points this evening and believes Steve McClaren's players will thrive on the challenge.

Terry said: "I don't think we've ever made out that we are very good. Everyone else has said that but as players we feel we have got a lot more to come.

"We need to do our talking on the pitch and start winning things, start winning games consistently, playing well consistently.

"You watch the game Croatian game over and over again. You try and pinpoint things. You understand why the fans and everyone else is frustrated - and with the friendly against Spain as well.

"It is down to us, not only the 11 players who start but the 18-19 players in the squad to come together."

The pressure is on England but Terry admitted: "I like this sort of game. There is a lot on it. We need to win.

"We are a group of players who want to improve on our last few performances and get back in the table to where we know we belong.

"We know we have underachieved as a group of players since Steve McClaren took over and it is only us who can do something about that.

"We have to win. I don't like to see us where we are in the table. We can't say a draw is a good result. A draw will not be good enough for us.

"Our next four or five games, we need to win them all."

McClaren echoed the belief of Terry that players should be as honest and forthright with each other at international level as when with their clubs.

He said: "It is one of the things you get at club level. There is a degree of respect for each other in that dressing room. There is at club level but you get over that working day in, day out. That is one of the barriers we have to get over.

"To become a team we have to gel together, be honest, respect each other and trust each other. You work towards that and sometimes you work towards that by being honest with each other.

"It is part and parcel of the sport and the game and team play. It is the expectation you have from each other. You get that at club level because you are working together daily.

"When you are only getting together on an irregular basis, sometimes it is difficult to be candid. We have had one or two chats. We will take that forward.

"There is a lot of anger when we lose. Maybe it is not expressed. Sometimes you don't meet up again for another six weeks. You have to bottle the anger and take it into the next game."

Ultimate10002000

25-03-2007, 11:16 AM

Allardyce confirms Ben Haim exit

Sam Allardyce has accepted that Tal Ben Haim will leave Bolton at the end of the season - and accepts that Chelsea are a likely destination.

The 24-year-old Israeli defender is out of contract at the Reebok Stadium in the summer, with Chelsea reportedly interested in taking him to London.

Allardyce told the Bolton News: "We can't afford Tal anymore. He will move on at the end of the season with my blessing and he will get a big club."

Ben Haim was linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in January but it never materialised.

Allardyce added: "What happened in January was disappointing because Chelsea made it aware they wanted him but then never made a bid of the significance that would have tempted me to let him go.

"Tal wanted to leave, which is understandable, but then all of a sudden Chelsea's funds appeared to have dried up so they wouldn't pay the kind of money that would have allowed us to sell him."

Ultimate10002000

29-03-2007, 07:31 PM

Terry: Money doesn't matter

John Terry says he "would play for England for nothing" after slamming criticism that the players have no pride in representing their country.

The England captain and the rest of the team have come under fire from fans and sections of the media since the 0-0 draw in Israel on Saturday.

Now anything less than victory over minnows Andoora on Wednesday could leave head coach Steve McClaren fighting to hold on to his job.

But Terry is adamant any failings are not down to a lack of desire or passion when representing England.

He said: "It really is an insult to hear people saying we don't care. When you're out there on the pitch and trying to do everything you can and you hear something like that, it really gets to you.

"People should know how I feel about playing for England. I get excited when I'm packing my bags before I come away with the squad. That's how much it means to me.

"There's nothing that gives me more pride or my family than pulling on that England shirt - and it's the same for every player.

"When people disrespect that and say that when I'm away with England I'm still thinking about Chelsea, that's certainly not the case.

"When I'm back at the club that's all I think about and when I'm with England my mind is 100% on the job in hand."

Terry added: "Take the money away and every single player in this squad would want to be involved in the next game. I would play for England for nothing.

"Of course, the money is fantastic but when I was a youngster coming through I played for nothing and my attitude hasn't changed since then.

"Take the money away and I would still be the first player into training the following morning."

Ultimate10002000

29-03-2007, 07:32 PM

Lampard ruled out of Andorra clash

Frank Lampard has been ruled out of England's Euro 2008 qualifier against Andorra as his wrist injury is far worse than first thought.

The Chelsea midfielder was expected to play despite suffering a cracked bone in his wrist in training on Monday.

However, it has now been discovered the injury is more serious, leaving Lampard with no chance of facing the part-timers in Barcelona on Wednesday evening.

A senior FA spokesman said: "We can confirm Frank Lampard will take no part in tonight's game."

It is thought Lampard will return to England when possible to ensure he gets the speediest treatment from Chelsea's medical staff.

At this stage it is not known exactly how long Lampard will be out.

Although the FA have not confirmed his absence from the game, it has been established from an impeccable source that he has a fracture low down on his arm and has also ruptured all the ligaments in his wrist.

It is believed the damage was done after the 29-year-old got in the way of a Wayne Rooney shot.

How ironic it would be if that incident led to Lampard missing key games in the title run-in.

The former West Ham player is due to play at Watford on Saturday and Chelsea will be keen to discover whether he will be cleared to play at Vicarage Road with a much heavier cast than he was wearing in training on Tuesday.

It puts McClaren in a strange situation given that there had been widespread calls for Lampard to be axed for Wednesday night's qualifier following his poor performance in Israel on Saturday.

However, it had been expected McClaren would partner Lampard with Steven Gerrard and Owen Hargreaves would be the man to step down, McClaren having presumably decided that Hargreaves' holding midfield skills were not required against a team that have conceded 19 goals in four games so far.

McClaren must now choose between the Bayern Munich man and Manchester United's Michael Carrick, whose greater passing skills could just give him the edge.

The FA declined to give an update on Lampard's fitness although they did confirm the player would travel home with the remainder of McClaren's squad after the game.

"We will know the team 75 minutes before kick-off," said a spokesman.

Ultimate10002000

29-03-2007, 07:32 PM

Morientes set to miss Blues clashes

Fernando Morientes is set to miss both legs of Valencia's Champions League quarter-final against Chelsea after damaging his right shoulder.

Morientes sustained the injury during the first half of Spain's 1-0 home win over Iceland on Wednesday night, and could be sidelined for up to a month.

Spain team doctor Genaro Borras said: "The shoulder will have to be immobilised for 15 days and he will be out between three to four weeks. It is not the first time Morientes has had a problem with the shoulder."

Valencia travel to Chelsea for the first leg of their quarter-final tie next Wednesday, before hosting the return meeting on April 10.

Ultimate10002000

29-03-2007, 07:33 PM

Blues unlikely to protest fine

Chelsea are understood to be considering their response to being handed a £100,000 fine by the FA following the Carling Cup final brawl.

The English champions, along with their Carling Cup final opponents Arsenal, were hit with identical financial penalties for the fracas which marred the end of the showpiece event at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium last month.

However, Chelsea are unlikely to protest at the size of the fine even though the commission found that Arsenal players had been 'marginally' more involved in the incident.

Chelsea had been warned in the past in proven cases where the general behaviour of their players had not been up to the required standard and the commission felt that justified a similar financial penalty.

Chelsea were twice fined £10,000 - and warned as to their future conduct - after being found guilty of two separate indictments last March, the first against West Brom and the second in a 1-0 defeat by Fulham.

The maximum financial sanction of £250,000 has never been handed down for such an offence.

Ultimate10002000

29-03-2007, 07:34 PM

Frank dropped by England - Reports

Frank Lampard was fit to play in England's Euro 2008 qualifier against Andorra but was dropped by coach Steve McClaren, according to reports.

Lampard suffered a hairline fracture to his wrist after being struck by a ball in training on Monday, but was passed fit to play with a protective cast by England physios.

However, according to a number of daily newspapers, McClaren decided not to play the Chelsea midfielder, and picked Owen Hagreaves and Steven Gerrard in central midfield.

Lampard tried to fly straight home after being omitted, but was told to stay and return to England with the rest of the squad.

Chelsea chiefs were keen to bring Lampard straight back to London to check on the injury, and offered to send a private jet, but he was made to stay with the England squad for the game in Barcelona.

However, McClaren claims that Lampard was not dropped from the side, and was merely left out as a precaution.

McClaren said: "It is not worth taking the risk with his injury. Of course he wants to play, but he understands the situation and is here to support the team."

Ultimate10002000

30-03-2007, 07:12 PM

Zola salutes battling Blues

Gianfranco Zola says Chelsea have shown remarkable character to remain in the hunt for the quadruple despite their injury problems this season.

The Premiership champions were without skipper John Terry for more than two months when they ground to leaders Manchester United but are still only six points behind with eight games to play.

Terry and goalkeeper Petr Cech have returned to the first team from injury and results have picked up, although Joe Cole is still sidelined.

The Blues have already picked up the Carling Cup and are in the latter stages of the Champions League and FA Cup as their players start returning from injury.

"What surprises me is that despite the problems and difficulties they are still there," said Zola, who never won the Premiership while at Chelsea.

"I have a lot of respect for them because they are showing a lot of character."

Zola, who is now involved in the Italy Under-21 set-up, feels the quadruple is still on.

"They have the possibilities, though I think it is going to be very difficult," he said.

"I am sure if they get a couple of them they will be very happy.

"I think for them the main target would be the Champions League. And they have got a great chance, especially with Barcelona and Inter Milan out, it will give them more chance."

Zola only played with Terry at the start of the defender's Chelsea career but feels it is vital for the champions to secure his future by agreeing a contract.

"I am sure he can get better and better," said Zola.

"I don't think Chelsea will let him go. He's the core, the spirit alongside Frank Lampard, so I'm sure the club will do everything to keep him."

Ultimate10002000

30-03-2007, 07:13 PM

Bridge return on the cards

England left-back Wayne Bridge, who underwent surgery on his knee two weeks ago, is back running and will be available within the next week.

The Chelsea defender said: "The knee is not bad. It is as good as it can be. It feels okay.

"A few people have been back in three weeks so hopefully I can match that or beat it."

Meanwhile, Frank Lampard is almost certain to be included in the squad to face struggling Watford on Saturday.

Lampard had the fractured bone in his wrist examined by club doctors on Thursday and with modern, light-plaster protection at such an advanced stage, the midfielder should have no problems in getting the cast accepted by the match official.

Chelsea have been boosted by further good news on the injury front ahead of their trip to Vicarage Road.

Michael Essien, who hurt his knee at home to Tottenham in the FA Cup quarter-final at Stamford Bridge, is now running again but the Watford clash may come too early for the player to make his return.

But the biggest slice of good news for Jose Mourinho concerned England midfielder Joe Cole.

Cole has been out for most of the season with a host of injuries - the worst of which turned out to be a broken foot.

Cole underwent surgery to cure the problem and has since returned to training as he attempts to meet his early April target for a comeback.

Cole had a scan on his foot on Monday and specialists revealed the broken bone in his foot has now completely healed.

His last appearance was as a substitute at Manchester United on November 26 but he is now weeks away from a return to action.

Chelsea took the opportunity to rest Michael Ballack, Mikel John Obi, Geremi and top scorer Didier Drogba.

None of those players were involved in international duties after the weekend but Mourinho told them not to return to training until Thursday.

Ultimate10002000

30-03-2007, 07:15 PM

Lampard ready for Watford clash

Frank Lampard should be deemed fit to face Watford after having a lightweight plaster cast fitted to protect a fractured bone in his wrist.

Lampard collected the injury on international duty with England but Chelsea have no further injury worries ahead of their trip to struggling Watford on Saturday.

Joe Cole (foot), Michael Essien (knee) and Wayne Bridge (knee) remain sidelined.

Kick-off at Vicarage Road is at 5.15pm.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Geremi, Ferreira, Diarra, Terry, Carvalho, A Cole, Boulahrouz, Lampard, Ballack, Makelele, Obi, Wright-Phillips, Shevchenko, Drogba, Kalou, Robben.

Ultimate10002000

31-03-2007, 08:22 PM

Chelsea cast off Lampard fears

Chelsea have confirmed that England midfielder Frank Lampard will play against Watford on Saturday in a lightweight plaster cast.

Lampard sustained a fractured bone in his wrist while on international duty with England for their Euro 2008 qualifiers against Israel and Andorra.

The injury prevented him from playing in the 3-0 win over Andorra but he has trained for the last two days with the Chelsea squad and assistant manager Steve Clarke confirmed that he would play against rock-bottom Hornets at Vicarage Road.

Clarke said: "Frank is good. He has trained the last couple of days with a cast on and he is much more comfortable with the injury. He will play against Watford."

Clarke also rejected suggestions that Lampard wanted to come home from international duty once he knew the injury would rule him out of the Andorra qualifier.

Clarke added: "The boy was injured and he couldn't play in the match. The decision was taken not to play him, not to risk him against Andorra.

"He was happy with that decision and he is happy to be back here at Chelsea.

"His return was never an issue. We didn't ask for him to come back and he never asked to come back. He stayed with the England squad to support the team and that is the end of the matter."

Lampard's performances for England have come in for heavy criticism together with the rest of Steve McClaren's side.

The midfielder has scored 20 goals so far this season for the champions but has not been able to reproduce the same kind of form at international level.

Lampard had a difficult World Cup campaign in Germany and his performances during England's Euro 2008 qualifiers have shown no significant signs of improvement.

But Clarke was unconcerned when asked why Lampard cannot recreate his club form for England and added that Chelsea always manage to get the best out of him.

Clarke declared: "Whenever I watch England play, Frank always gives 100-per-cent for his country in every game he plays.

"If people want to criticise his performances for England, that is not a concern for me.

"I think when he plays for Chelsea, everyone knows his value to the club.

"We appreciate what he does for us and we are very happy with his performances.

"But we can only get the best out of Frank Lampard when he is with Chelsea and I think we do that."

Ultimate10002000

31-03-2007, 08:23 PM

Blues suffer Robben injury woe

Chelsea have been rocked by the loss of Dutch ace Arjen Robben with a knee injury that looks likely to rule him out for the rest of the season.

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho has revealed Robben is to undergo surgery and that is likely to keep him out for the remainder of the campaign.

The winger returned from international duty with Holland on Thursday afternoon and medical staff decided that surgery was the best option to cure the problem.

Chelsea's season has been blighted by long-term injuries to key players including captain John Terry, goalkeeper Petr Cech and England midfielder Joe Cole.

Mourinho tried to put a brave face on the loss of the winger but found it difficult to believe he had lost his services after an international week when he had played twice for his country.

Mourinho told Chelsea TV: "Robben will be out for a long time. For me it is a bit difficult to accept because he played two matches for his country, 90 minutes last Wednesday, and the next day he came here and he is injured.

"He needs surgery and we lose an important player maybe for the rest of the season."

The actual scale of the knee problem has yet to be revealed by Chelsea but if it involves ligament damage, then Robben is unlikely to take any further part in their quest for glory on three remaining fronts - the Premiership, FA Cup and Champions League.

The Dutchman's season has been peppered with injuries and this latest setback could not have come at a worse time for Mourinho.

Robben had been on top of his game prior to the international break and Mourinho had been full of praise for the winger who had been instrumental in helping keep the pressure on Manchester United at the top of the Premiership.

But while Mourinho lamented the loss of the mercurial Robben, he was boosted by the return of Cole.

Cole has been sidelined all season with a broken foot but now the England midfielder is ready to help Mourinho get over Robben's absence.

Mourinho declared: "Joe Cole is coming back and maybe next week we have him. But again we can never have our best team with every player available. But if I can lose one and gain one, it is not so bad.

"At this time we just want to have no more injuries because the matches are arriving and all of them are like finals.

"We want to be under pressure and being under pressure is to play every three days. We have fought a lot to be in this situation. It is difficult but we cannot complain, we need to be happy.

"What a player like John Terry wants to do now is play and play and play and don't miss one single second because he missed so much in the season.

"We have some very strong characters and if they are not injured, they want to play every time."

Cole has targeted next week's Champions League clash with Valencia at Stamford Bridge as his comeback game but that might be a little too early for the England star.

However, there is every indication he could return for the second leg at the Mestalla.

Ultimate10002000

31-03-2007, 08:23 PM

Clarke unsure of Bridge future

Chelsea assistant coach Steve Clarke admits his future at the club has been the subject of intense speculation this season.

Blues boss Jose Mourinho insists his backroom staff do not need a contract as they have a job for life with him - wherever he goes.

But Clarke's current deal with the club expires in the summer and there has been speculation that it will not be renewed.

However, Mourinho's number two says he expects to be at the club next term although he revealed there had been no discussions over a new contract as yet.

Clarke added: "I expect to be here next season, yes. I haven't spoken to them yet but I would expect to do so sometime before the end of June because that's when my contract runs out.

"I will wait until the end of the season. I want to concentrate on what we have to do this season and then we will take it from there."

Chelsea could go nine points behind Manchester United at the top of the Premiership by the time they kick-off against Watford.

United face Blackburn at Old Trafford at 3pm while Chelsea get their game underway at 5.15.

But Clarke insists they are not worried by United's opportunity to put more pressure on them.

Clarke said: "Watford are fighting for their lives and they no they need to win the match.

"We are fighting to be champions again and we know we need to win the match.

"We have to win all our games. The mind set we have is to go out tomorrow and win. It does not matter what Manchester United do before us, because we have to win the game."

NTFT99

01-04-2007, 12:15 AM

how chelsea squad any injury or suspension?

makirri

01-04-2007, 09:58 AM

yes robben is out. under went sugery.

a good win at watford without one of the world best winger. i have feeling CFC may finally get things back.

just maintain. i have a feeling manure going to drop points in april. CFC can go emirates beat arse. important match. then beat manure at home. :D

i have feeling west ham will spoil manure days. tevezzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

RVN

01-04-2007, 11:17 AM

Ultimate10002000

03-04-2007, 08:14 PM

Robinson tips Prem team for CL glory

Michael Robinson is backing a Premiership team to be crowned European champions, although he feels Chelsea will have to do it the hard way.

Of the three Premiership teams to make it through to the quarter-finals, Chelsea have been handed arguably the toughest tie with a meeting against Spanish side Valencia, the 2000 and 2001 finalists.

The other two Premiership teams still involved, Manchester United and Liverpool, meet Roma and PSV Eindhoven respectively in their last-eight fixtures.

Robinson, the former Liverpool striker who is now a leading football pundit in Spain, said: "I said earlier this year that I think this could be the year of an English team.

"I like the English teams. I think Liverpool are a good side, I think United are a very good side, and I think Chelsea are a good side, but strangely enough I half fancy Valencia against Chelsea.

"Valencia are probably the only team left that are as comfortable playing without the ball as they are with it.

"If you look at Manchester United, United teams have one way of playing, albeit extremely attractive and extremely successful. They roll their sleeves up and are up and at them, and are very good doing it. But when you keep the ball away from Manchester United, they tend not to be the best defensive side in the world.

"Valencia are a team who can defend and use the counter-attack, and can do it particularly well."

While he feels Chelsea will have their hands full coping with Valencia, Robinson is confident 2005 Champions League winners Liverpool will be able to dispose of PSV Eindhoven in their quarter-final.

Rafael Benitez's side took four points off PSV after they were paired together in the group stages of this year's competition, and Robinson feels Liverpool should again be too strong for the Dutch side.

However, the former Republic of Ireland international does not think it will be easy and has highlighted PSV's elimination of Arsenal in the previous round as an example of the threat Ronald Koeman's side could pose.

"I consider Liverpool to be favourites against PSV Eindhoven. I watched PSV (in the 5-1 home defeat to Ajax) and they are not doing particularly well in their league," said Robinson.

"But obviously they raised their game to beat Arsenal, and any team that beats Arsenal has got to be respected.

"Any team that is in the quarter-finals of the Champions League are a good football team, there isn't a bad team in the quarter-finals of this competition.

"But I must admit when the draw was taking place I was rather hoping Liverpool would play against PSV Eindhoven.

"I think they are the weakest team left in the competition, although the weakest team left in the competition are still a strong team.

"There are no pushovers in the last eight."

Ultimate10002000

03-04-2007, 08:15 PM

Los Che president feeling confident

Valencia president Juan Soler is confident ahead of Wednesday's Champions League clash at Chelsea, despite his side missing a host of players.

Los Che are travelling to London for the quarter-final first leg at Stamford Bridge with seven of their first-team squad unavailable due to injury and bans.

Former Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes damaged his shoulder while on duty with Spain last week and he joins fellow internationals Ruben Baraja, Edu and Mario Regueiro on the sidelines.

Young winger Jaime Gavilan is also absent through injury, while defenders Carlos Marchena and David Navarro sit the game out because of the bans imposed by UEFA for their part in the brawl which marred their previous round clash against Inter Milan.

Missing players through injury is nothing new for Valencia this season though, and Soler believes his side still have every chance of making it through to the semi-finals.

Soler said: "We are in a good moment despite the injuries and we are looking forward to meeting Chelsea. We are used to watching them on television and these two games are a sign of where we are.

"We have high hopes and a great desire to get through this tie."

Despite the absentees, Soler believes there is little to separate the two teams and in star striker David Villa and wing duo Vicente and Joaquin, he thinks Valencia have an attacking trio capable of unlocking any defence.

"It is difficult with the two teams very evenly matched, either of the two can get through," he said.

"We have Vicente, Villa and Joaquin which is the best trident in Europe in my opinion, they are players who in form could cause damage to any team."

Villa and Vicente were both on target at the weekend as Valencia beat Espanyol 3-2 to keep within six points of Primera Liga leaders Barcelona.

Villa believes it is important to get something positive out of this week's trip to London in order to give themselves the post possible chance of progressing through.

"As everyone always says, to obtain an away goal and not to lose is a good result. The tie will be decided at the Mestalla and I hope we are the beneficiaries," he said.

"Everything will be decided by the smallest details, individual players, errors... I hope that it all goes in our favour.

"We will need to be at 100% and make the most of the few or many chances we have to score so we can face the return leg with more guarantees.

"We are not worried about who are favourites, we will not go into the game any differently because we have confidence in our abilities."

Ultimate10002000

03-04-2007, 08:16 PM

Jose: Pepe price put off Chelsea

Jose Mourinho has indicated that Chelsea's big spending could be over by claiming the club could not afford to sign Porto centre-back Pepe.

Mourinho's barbed comments will further aggravate disillusioned Blues owner Roman Abramovich and suggest that the Russian has imposed a spending freeze, after an estimated £400million expenditure since buying the club in 2004.

Speaking after Porto's 1-1 draw at Benfica on Sunday, Mourinho told the Portuguese press: "Pepe (who put the visitors ahead) impressed me a lot and was very good.

"Besides, I've been passionate about Pepe for a long time. By that, don't think that Chelsea want Pepe, because they don't have money for him."

It is unlikely in any case that Mourinho will still be at Stamford Bridge this summer, with only Champions League success offering any hope of salvation.

However, sources close to Chelsea say Guus Hiddink will not replace Mourinho because he has a contract with Russia until the end of the Euro 2008 finals.

Other reports indicate Portsmouth's Israeli coach Avi Grant will join the Stamford Bridge coaching staff in the summer.

Brazilian defender Pepe, 24, has impressed at Porto since joining from Maritimo in 2004. He won Portuguese citizenship last year and is now hoping to be called up by Luiz Felipe Scolari to the national team.

Mourinho's claim comes after Rafa Benitez was reportedly given £40million to spend on the Liverpool side in the summer.

Ultimate10002000

03-04-2007, 08:16 PM

Blues go for Joe against Valencia

Joe Cole returns to the Chelsea squad for Wednesday's Champions League quarter-final, first-leg clash at home to Valencia.

England midfielder Cole has finally recovered from the stress fracture of the foot which has kept him out of action all season.

But his return is bittersweet with Dutch winger Arjen Robben out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

England left-back Wayne Bridge is fit again after knee surgery.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Diarra, Terry, Carvalho, Bridge, A Cole, Ballack, Makelele, Lampard, Essien, Wright-Phillips, Drogba, Kalou, Shevchenko, Mikel, J Cole.

ceLsius

03-04-2007, 09:06 PM

The blue flags will be waving once more at Stamford Bridge.

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q80/ceLsiuss/cfc.jpg

Ultimate10002000

04-04-2007, 08:06 PM

Jose: Blues don't want pricey Villa

Jose Mourinho insists Chelsea's big-spending days are over and confirmed he is not interested in a move for Valencia striker David Villa.

The English champions take on Valencia in the Champions League quarter-finals first leg at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night, but Mourinho dropped a transfer bombshell that again hinted at unhappiness with the club's billionaire owner Roman Abramovich.

The Russian vetoed any further spending during the January transfer window when Chelsea were struck down by a host of injuries to key players, including captain John Terry.

His decision is understood to have sparked a rift between owner and coach and now Mourinho claims the days of paying "silly" prices for top stars are over.

Mourinho has spent tens of millions to bring successive Premiership titles to the club since he took charge three years ago. Last summer Chelsea paid £30 million to sign Ukrainian striker Andriy Shevchenko from AC Milan.

But despite shelling out a club record for the prolific forward, he has failed to shine in the Premier League.

Now Mourinho believes Chelsea will never again pay over-inflated prices for players.

Responding to a question about former transfer target Villa, who will line-up for Valencia against Chelsea, he declared: "He is a great player and yes, I think he could play in a big team, but Chelsea don't want to sign him.

"We have got two excellent forwards as things stand. Also, from what I hear about the price, they are asking silly money for him.

"As you see all over the game these days, we hear daft prices mentioned for players. I can tell you that here at Chelsea it is all over - spending silly money."

The Portuguese coach knows he faces a tough challenge against Valencia, who remain in contention for the title in Spain and knocked out Inter Milan in the last round.

However, the end of their second leg against Milan was married by an on-pitch melee in which Valencia substitute David Navarro punched Inter's Nicolas Burdisso.

Players from both teams continued to manhandle each other in the tunnel and Inter's players attempted to force their way into the Valencia dressing room to confront Navarro.

But Mourinho has seen it all before and revealed he has already warned his players to steer clear of the rough stuff.

Mourinho said: "We have played against Spanish and Portuguese teams a lot of times, and the mentality is different.

"The pure English mentality we have in the Premiership, where nobody cheats, well almost nobody, where people try to be correct and respect opponents, is sometimes a bit different when you play in UEFA competitions.

"You have to be ready to be intelligent. I showed my players one image in a video from the Valencia versus Inter Milan game, where in minute five there was a duel with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"Santiago Canizares sprints 50 metres and Ayala sprints 50 metres to try and make a mess around Ibrahimovic. So it is the kind of situation where we have to be intelligent.

"But I see Valencia as a team that likes to play good football. I think what happened at the end of the game against Inter happens once in a while.

"I am not afraid of it but I think they come here to play their game and not to make a fight. I look at them as a good football team."

Mourinho confirmed that Michael Essien is out of the first leg along with Arjen Robben, but Joe Cole is in the squad.

Cole has recovered from the stress fracture of the foot that has sidelined him all season but Mourinho would not be drawn on whether he would play or not.

Mourinho said: "Joe Cole is not injured anymore. If he is ready to play or not is still a doubt. Michael Essien is out.

"Arjen Robben is a loss. He is a player that gives what you need in these home matches. It is a game we have to try and win and Robben is an attacking player. He enjoys to play in these kind of matches. We will miss him but this is nothing new for us."

Ultimate10002000

04-04-2007, 08:07 PM

Del Horno back at the Bridge

Valencia left-back Asier Del Horno returns to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday insisting he has no point to prove.

The defender was signed by Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho from Athletic Bilbao for £8million in the summer of 2005 but was jettisoned a year later after failing to impress his Portuguese manager.

But Del Horno, who is set to make his Champions League debut for the Spanish club after a serious calf injury sidelined him for the first half of the season, said all he was concentrating on was the quarter-final against Chelsea and not making a statement to his former coach.

Ironically, his last appearance in the Champions League came at Stamford Bridge when he was sent off in the 2-1 defeat to Barcelona in February 2006.

"I had a very good year and I enjoyed my time here, but I don't think I have to take any kind of exam," he said.

"I have been out for a long time and it's great to be playing again. I'm focused on the task ahead and it's important that Valencia put in a good performance.

"Everyone knows Chelsea very well. Whoever plays for them, we know they will be difficult rivals but we are not going to concentrate on them. We have to play our own game."

The arrival of big-name signings Michael Ballack and Andriy Shevchenko last summer have seen Chelsea adopt their tactics accordingly - something not lost on Del Horno.

"Chelsea have changed their system a little bit and whereas before they liked to attack down the wings, now they play through the middle," he said.

"But when you think that they have the likes of Ballack and Shevchenko down the middle, they are a very strong side.

"It's very important that we score. It was vital in the away leg against Inter and we are hoping to do the same again."

Ultimate10002000

04-04-2007, 08:08 PM

Cech: Blues have mental strength

Petr Cech insists Chelsea's winning mentality can help them to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League by knocking out Valencia.

The Blues take on Los Che in Wednesday's first leg of their quarter-final at Stamford Bridge - boosted by a last-gasp win over Watford in the Premiership on Saturday.

Substitute Salomon Kalou's injury-time winner kept Chelsea in the hunt for a third successive league title and Cech hopes it can give them a psychological lift ahead of the clash with the Spanish side.

Cech said: "The goal was very important because it kept us in the championship race. It was an huge goal. It can help us psychologically against Valencia. Even though we didn't play well on Saturday, we won the game which is important.

"If Valencia score at Stamford Bridge, it changes things. But I don't think it will be decisive because we are also a very good team who can go to Valencia and score an away goal as well.

"Both teams are very strong and for us to keep a clean sheet at home would be a big help. You need a strong mentality at this stage of the season because every game is like a final.

"You need that mentality to cope with the pressure and focus on the job. We were in the semi-finals two years ago and we would like to go further this time.

"It would be great for the whole club because it has not been an easy season. There have been a lot of injuries and other things going on, but it's the start of April and we are still in all competitions so that's good."

Chelsea will welcome back England midfielder Joe Cole after a season out of action with a stress fracture of the foot.

Cole is included in the squad and the former West Ham star is buzzing at the prospect of finally putting his injury nightmare behind him.

He almost returned against Watford last Saturday but decided to give himself a little more time after a minor setback.

Cole said: "There are always little niggles when you come back - I got one before the Watford game so we erred on the side of caution.

"I feel fine now. Some said I wouldn't play this season but I want to come back and make an impact and hopefully that'll be tonight."

But Cole is under no illusions about the task of beating Valencia over two legs.

He added: "The key for us will be not to lose at home. A win is what we're after but, as long as we don't lose, I won't be too worried. There is no need to go all gung-ho too early on in the tie. We must use our experience and play a clever match.

"It will be a serious test for us over two legs. Valencia have top players all over the pitch and have a great team ethic. We're not worried about having to go to Spain. We've gone away before in Europe and finished the job and we can do it again."

Ultimate10002000

04-04-2007, 08:09 PM

Hughes on Blues radar - Report

Blackburn chief Mark Hughes has reportedly emerged as a shock contender to replace Jose Mourinho at Chelsea.

The friction between Mourinho and Blues owner Roman Abramovich looks likely to result in the departure of the Portuguese boss, regardless of how many trophies he wins this season and the club are keen to adopt a more British approach for the next campaign.

A host of top names, including Frank Rijkaard, Guus Hiddink, Marcello Lippi and Roberto Mancini, have been linked with the Stamford Bridge hot-seat but Abramovich has apparently been impressed by Hughes' work at Ewood Park since taking over in September 2004.

As a player, Hughes won the FA Cup, League Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup during a three-year spell between 1995 and 1998.

Welshman Hughes, who also had a spell in charge of the national side, revealed last week he would be keen on taking over from Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United, but Ferguson has stated he will remain in charge at Old Trafford for at least another two years.

Ultimate10002000

05-04-2007, 08:13 PM

Chelsea need to find another level

TEAMtalk reflects on Chelsea's 1-1 Champions League draw with Valencia and feels they just fell short against the hard-working Spaniards.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho may feel his players possess an extra gear inside - but on Wednesday night's showing, they will have to go into overdrive to win the Champions League this season.

Unlike many Spanish teams, Valencia are not shy of hard work, a trait left at the club by a certain former manager, one Rafael Benitez.

That showed during the opening exchanges as the visitors were not afraid to take the game to their illustrious hosts.

No real problem there, though, you would expect.

After all Mourinho's men face such dogged resistance week in, week out during Barclays Premiership combat and are, more often than not, easily able to overcome it.

Defender Roberto Ayala certainly made his presence felt with a bodycheck on Ukraine hitman Andriy Shevchenko which was more akin to a wrestling ring than a quarter-final of Europe's elite club competition.

It was a misdemeanour which deserved punishment, arguably with a spot-kick and at the very least a caution - yet for the width of a crossbar it could have also seen Chelsea go into the lead through Salomon Kalou's fine strike.

At this level you just have to take your chances - something David Villa could not do when put clear into the left side of the box on the angle soon afterwards.

Inside 15 minutes and Mourinho was off the bench, barking orders at the troops, no doubt consciously aware of the Holy Grail status this competition has now taken on for the west London club, and perhaps more notably their billionaire Russian owner.

Things may have got distinctively edgy had the normally reliable David Silva not somehow skewed the ball wide from six yards when a wayward shot from Joaquin fell into his path, the Chelsea defence caught square.

The atmosphere inside the Bridge did become just that as, on the half-hour, following the ridiculous came the sublime.

There seemed little genuine danger when the Spain midfielder picked the ball up on the left, some 35 yards out.

But a couple of touches and one superb strike later, Petr Cech was beaten all ends up.

Not often you can say that about the Chelsea goalkeeper.

It had been more than a year since the taste of Champions League defeat was felt at Stamford Bridge.

Now, though, you thought the home side would dig deep and find the inner strength which lies beneath.

We waited... and waited. Surely Chelsea would rise to the challenge now, arguably their biggest test of the season?

Less than five minutes into the second half and there was movement on the bench, Joe Cole primed for a triumphant return to the action following his injury lay-off.

It was, though, the familiar source of Didier Drogba which drew the home side level.

Forget all this Total Football nonsense. When struggling for inspiration, go route one.

Still, even if you lump endless long balls into the danger area, without the class to produce a clinical finish, more will end up in the stands than in the back of the net.

From then on, you sensed this could again be time for the Chelsea of old, the team which had shifted the power balance in English football and were intent on becoming the dominant force of the European game.

As much as Chelsea huffed and puffed, the goal just would not come - meaning the only certainty from the encounter is that Mourinho and his men will have to do much, much better in the Mestalla next week or face another painful exit from the competition.

Ultimate10002000

05-04-2007, 08:13 PM

Valencia denied by 30-up Drogba

Didier Drogba's goal salvaged a 1-1 draw for Chelsea in their Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash with Valencia at Stamford Bridge.

The Ivory Coast hitman gave Chelsea hope when he cancelled out David Silva's impressive first-half goal for Valencia with a 53rd minute header.

The Spaniards made Jose Mourinho's side work hard for their share of the spoils during a thrilling encounter at Stamford Bridge and the draw will give Valencia the edge in the quarter-final return leg next Tuesday.

The English champions opened brightly enough but left-back Ashley Cole rushed a cross which eluded both Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou as it flashed across the six-yard box.

In the ninth minute, Kalou hit the crossbar from the edge of the penalty area after Roberto Ayala had blocked Andriy Shevchenko's path to goal with a crude challenge.

Ayala's block went unpunished by Belgian referee Frank De Bleeckere despite Chelsea's appeals for a penalty.

Two minutes later Villa squandered a chance when he failed to hit the target from close range after escaping the shackles of the Chelsea defence.

Valencia missed another good chance to take the lead in the 21st minute when Joaquin's shot found David Silva unmarked in the penalty area.

Silva only had to touch the ball goalwards to beat Cech but mistimed his kick completely and the Blues escaped again.

Seconds later former Chelsea left-back Asier del Horno tested Cech with a 25-yard volley which the Czech international dived to his right to clutch.

Valencia's pressure paid off in the 30th minute when Silva sent a 25-yard angled drive flashing past Cech and into the far corner of the net. It was just reward for the Spanish side.

Two minutes before the interval David Albelda was booked for a foul on Cole - and from the resulting free-kick Michael Ballack headed wide from six yards.

Chelsea started the second half in a much more positive fashion and Kalou was unlucky when he mistimed a shot from a cross by Lassana Diarra.

There was far more urgency about Chelsea's play now and for the first time in the game they looked capable of unsettling their opponents.

Lampard wasted a free-kick after Drogba had been brought down by Ayala - hitting the ball straight at Valencia's defensive wall.

But Chelsea's higher tempo football paid off in the 53rd minute when Drogba equalised.

It was more of a case of route one football for the champions as Cole's long clearance bounced fortuitously inside the penalty area for Drogba to head over the advancing Canizares.

Chelsea's equaliser had given them even more impetus and the Spanish side were having to defend at length for the first time in the contest.

The Blues were now winning the majority of the challenges in the midfield and collecting the all-important knock-downs as they continued to pile on the pressure.

A second goal give them more hope in the return leg but when Diarra clever worked an opening for Lampard via the intervention of Drogba, the England midfielder could not direct his shot on target.

Chelsea were now moving the ball with ease across the midfield but they could not deliver the telling final ball when it mattered.

Diarra was guilty of wasting a chance to put more pressure on the Spanish side in the 66th minute when he tried to chip Canizares from fully 40 yards.

The hosts appealed for a penalty when Shevchenko went to ground under a challenge from del Horno - but all they got for their efforts was a corner.

Mourinho sent on Shaun Wright-Phillips and Joe Cole with 15 minutes remaining in a bid to snatch a winner, for Cole it was his first action since November - and he got a rapturous reception from the Blues fans.

The all-out attack almost paid off seven minutes from time when Canizares flapped at a Lampard corner but Shevchenko's goalbound scissor-kick was cleared off the line.

Ultimate10002000

05-04-2007, 08:14 PM

No panic for Mourinho

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho insists there is no reason to panic after his side were held to a 1-1 Champions League draw by Valencia.

Didier Drogba's equaliser ensured the Blues head to Spain for the second leg next week level pegging after David Silva's first-half opener.

And Mourinho said: "I knew that the tie would still be open, with that kind of result, 0-1, 1-1, 2-1, so there was no reason to panic.

"Maybe everybody is thinking they are one step ahead, and are all enjoying this result but, if I was in their place, I would be very cautious.

"If you have a good referee there, not influenced by the enthusiastic atmosphere of the Spanish, I do not see why we cannot get a result.

"It is 1-1. It is not 0-3. Chelsea can win in Valencia, we can draw 2-2 or go to extra-time, but of course it will be difficult."

Ultimate10002000

05-04-2007, 08:15 PM

Drogba not fazed by Mestalla talk

Didier Drogba insists Chelsea will not be under pressure when they face Valencia in the return leg of their Champions League quarter-final.

The Ivory Coast forward took his tally to 30 goals for the season with a 53rd-minute headed equaliser which left the quarter-final tie delicately poised.

Chelsea know they will have to score in the Mestalla Stadium to stand any chance of progressing to the last four of a competition that coach Jose Mourinho is desperate to win for a second time.

The English champions were outplayed in the opening half at Stamford Bridge and Valencia fully deserved their 1-0 lead - courtesy of a fabulous 25-yard angled drive from David Silva.

But Drogba, as he has done so many times this season, rescued Mourinho's men with a typically opportunist header from Ashley Cole's long through-ball.

Valencia demonstrated the combination of silk and steel that enabled them to overcome Inter Milan in the last round and while they remain favourites to go through to the semi-finals next week, Drogba says Chelsea will not feel the heat.

Drogba declared: "There will be no pressure on us in the second leg, the pressure was here when they scored. So now we don't have any pressure.

"It is not the best result but I think we can still do something there.

"As usual we showed good character to come back but the goal Silva scored was unbelievable.

"It was a great goal and a great finish. Valencia played very well but I think we again showed our character.

"But you never know it football what can happen. We went to Liverpool two seasons ago in the semi-final and we didn't score."

Drogba's sensational season in front of goal has made him one of the favourites to be named player of the year by his fellow professionals, but he refuses to take all the credit.

"The team help me to score as well so I think it is 50-50. I am giving my best for the team and they are giving everything for me as well," he said.

Chelsea captain John Terry echoed Drogba's views on the team's character, adding that it was their fighting spirit and the striker's nose for goals which helped to keep them in the hunt for Champions League glory.

Terry said: "With Didier scoring goals we are sure we can score a few goals. We just need to keep a clean sheet.

"We scored a great goal and the fighting spirit was just what we needed. We have shown in the Champions League we can go away and go through.

"We need to be on our game and full of confidence and take the game to them.

Ultimate10002000

05-04-2007, 08:16 PM

Ok at least Chelsea manage to get a draw. I am sure Chelsea can do much better during the 2nd leg and score a good victory.

Ultimate10002000

06-04-2007, 07:23 PM

Terry stands firm on title charge

Chelsea captain John Terry insists the Blues can still overhaul Manchester United's six-point lead at the top of the Premiership.

Chelsea take on Tottenham in the early kick-off on Saturday less than 48 hours after their opponents played Sevilla in the first leg of their UEFA Cup quarter-final in Spain.

Victory over Spurs would allow Jose Mourinho's men to finally put some pressure on leaders United who face a difficult trip to Portsmouth in a 5.15pm start.

Terry declared: "All we can do at this stage of the season is keep winning, winning, winning. It's such a busy period but if we do keep winning, we're going to be successful.

"Manchester United are doing well, there's no denying that, but anything can happen and they've still got to come to our place.

"We beat Watford last Saturday in the end and we've now won 13 and drawn two of our last 15 games."

Three points against their north London rivals would also give Chelsea the perfect boost ahead of their return leg with Valencia in the Champions League next Tuesday.

The English champions were held to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the tie at Stamford Bridge. It needed a Didier Drogba header to rescue the Blues after David Silva's first-half thunderbolt had given the Spaniards a vital away goal.

Terry added: "We know what is needed. But I don't know why there is this belief in football that it's better to have the away leg first.

"We won our quarter-finals against Arsenal and Bayern Munich in the Champions League when we were at home first.

"I think you have to approach home and away legs differently so it doesn't make any difference."

Ultimate10002000

07-04-2007, 10:12 PM

Cole keeps place in Chelsea squad

Joe Cole is included in Chelsea squad for the visit of Tottenham on Saturday after successfully returning to first-team action in midweek.

Arjen Robben (knee) and Michael Essien (knee) are out but Chelsea have no fresh injury problems.

Salomon Kalou will be hoping to retain his place in the side after some impressive displays recently.

Kick-off at Stamford Bridge is 12.45pm.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Carvalho, Terry, Bridge, A Cole, J Cole, Lampard, Ballack, Makelele, Obi, Diarra, Drogba, Wright-Phillips, Boulahrouz, Shevchenko, Kalou.

Ultimate10002000

07-04-2007, 10:12 PM

Drogba determined to break Spurs jinx

Didier Drogba is more determined to break his scoring drought against Tottenham on Saturday instead of smashing more club records.

The Ivory Coast international took his tally for the season to 30 with his headed equaliser against Valencia in the first leg of Chelsea's Champions League quarter-final at Stamford Bridge.

In doing so he became the first Chelsea player to reach the figure since former England striker Kerry Dixon achieved the feat 22 years ago.

But now there are new milestones for the Ivorian to chase as Drogba needs just three goals to beat his best previous season, his last at Marseille, and seven more will take him past the 36 that Dixon managed in that 1984/85 campaign.

Another 10 goals will put him in the same bracket as the legendary England forward Jimmy Greaves - the last Blues player to hit 40 in a season in all competitions.

But Drogba declared: "That would be difficult. Because we don't have many more games.

"But I don't care if I don't get this objective and we win some more cups. And I want first to score against Tottenham on Saturday because since I have been at Chelsea, I haven't scored against them.

"I don't feel good because of this, like I haven't scored against Man United. That is difficult to accept but that is football."

His goal against Valencia also gave him much satisfaction on another level.

His final game for Marseille before joining Chelsea was a 2-0 defeat in the UEFA Cup final against the Spanish side.

Drogba added: "The first game against them I lost, the second one we drew but now I hope we beat them because they are a tough team and we have to keep dreaming.

"I am just proud to score 30. It is a good feeling. Everybody has that feeling at the start of the season but especially I did because I know my body and I know when I have prepared very well and I know what I am able to do.

"I was just left to pray I would prevent injuries. The most important thing when you play 50 games in one season is fitness and don't be injured.

"Having two up front has created space for me, Sheva (Andriy Shevchenko) or whoever is playing with me.

"For a striker it is easier to play. You just have to see David Villa last Wednesday. Alone for him it was difficult. When he is playing with Fernando Morientes, he has more space, and he can move. It is easy to understand."

Drogba's exploits this season have not been lost on Dixon who bagged his 36 goals in the old Division One.

The former England striker made the most of his partnership with David Speedie during that season and believes, that given the quality of strikers Chelsea have enjoyed since then, he is surprised it has taken so long for someone to breach the barrier again.

Dixon said: "A Chelsea striker reaching 30 has been a long time coming and I am glad it has been put to bed now.

"But I wasn't thinking about 30, I was thinking about as many as I can and if Didier gets to 36 or more, I'll be delighted as it will mean he and Chelsea finish the season strong.

"Jimmy [Floyd Hasselbaink] went close one season to 30 and it is surprising it's taken 22 years but goals aren't an easy commodity to come by and Didier has had a fantastic year.

"I'm sure he'll be desperate for more chances having broken a little barren spell."

Ultimate10002000

07-04-2007, 10:13 PM

Essien in Blues fitness battle

Michael Essien is battling to be fit for Chelsea's quarter-final return against Valencia - but insists his team-mates can triumph without him.

The 24-year-old midfielder has been sidelined with a knee injury since the FA Cup quarter-final draw with Tottenham at Stamford Bridge but he is getting ever closer to a return.

His availability would be a welcome boost for coach Jose Mourinho as Chelsea have missed the Ghanaian's thrust in midfield, particularly in the 1-1 draw with Valencia in the opening leg last Wednesday.

It is the team's fighting spirit which gives Essien the belief that Chelsea can reach the semi-finals of the competition for the second time in three years under Mourinho.

Essien, who has never been further than the last eight in the competition, said: "For me, one of the best things about this Chelsea team is that we never give up.

"Even when we go behind we can change things around and still come back right up until the very end.

"Luckily, we've got the experience and the strength in the team to be able to do that and it's helped us on many occasions. But we work really hard to get into the kind of condition where we can keep going and going.

"We have to believe that even though we are away from home in the second leg, we can still score goals.

"We have the belief in ourselves that we can do it and get through to the semi-final."

Victory would keep Chelsea on course for success in three more competitions this season.

The Blues have already bagged the Carling Cup and they are still in the hunt for the Premiership title, the FA Cup and, of course, the Champions League.

It is a situation that Essien has never experienced before but one he is determined to enjoy.

Essien added: "We've played more games than any other club in England - every three days we've had to play a game and for us the intensity of every game is so great because we are fighting all these competition and want to do well.

"But I don't find it too hard - my system has got used to it. And football is what I love doing.

"I love playing in as many big games at possible. It's what you want and it's what happens when you are at a top club. It also means we're doing well. Hopefully, we can win the maximum number of trophies."

Ultimate10002000

07-04-2007, 10:13 PM

Fergie: Blues have unfair advantage

Sir Alex Ferguson has hit out at the crazy fixture scheduling he believes has handed Chelsea an unfair boost in the race for the title.

Although Manchester United remain in pole position, six points clear with just seven games left heading into Saturday evening's clash with Portsmouth, Chelsea are strongly fancied to halve the deficit against Tottenham a few hours earlier.

Spurs have been pressed into action just 39 hours after completing their draining UEFA Cup quarter-final first leg in Seville.

Chelsea rejected Tottenham's efforts to get the Stamford Bridge clash put back 24 hours as is usually the case after Thursday UEFA Cup games because of their own scheduled flight to Valencia ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final return leg, throwing the decision back into the Premier League's hands.

And, much to Martin Jol's displeasure and Ferguson's disbelief, the authorities decided the original date and kick-off time should stand.

"Given the power Chelsea seem to have over issues like this, I am not surprised," said Ferguson.

"If the game had been played on Sunday lunchtime, Chelsea would still have had well over two full days to prepare for the Valencia game. As it is, Tottenham get 39 hours. What is the right decision?

"It seems the Premier League are quite happy to give Chelsea the extra time but not Tottenham.

"If Tottenham lose, and lose out on a European place because of it, I don't imagine they will be very happy.

"But it is the Tottenham supporters I feel sorry for. They have travelled to see them play in Seville and now their team is asked to play again so quickly. It is letting them down in some ways."

If Chelsea do emerge victorious from the London derby, United's lead will be cut to its lowest level since Christmas.

Ferguson has already spoken about the psychological effect perceived swings in fortune can have, even when nothing has fundamentally changed.

So it is no surprise he is even more anxious than usual that United should approach the Fratton Park trip caring only about their own performance and result.

"We have to concentrate on ourselves," he said.

"We have been doing really well. Our form is good. I have no issues about that at all. Hopefully that will continue."

In order to ensure his team were fully prepared for the Portsmouth encounter, Ferguson took the unusual step of keeping them in Italy after Wednesday's draining Champions League tussle with Roma.

By flying straight to the south coast, Ferguson has cut down his side's travelling time and with their eyes firmly focussed on ending a four-year championship drought, the United boss does not believe there will be a problem with focus as attention shifts from major European challenges to huge ones on the domestic front.

"We have the league title uppermost in our thoughts and that is the best motivation you could possibly have," said Ferguson.

"It is not easy coming out of a European game but it really helps that we are challenging for the title and I also believe we have done the right thing by staying in Rome.

"We have avoided a long trip back, which has allowed us to prepare properly to give ourselves the best chance possible of getting a result at Portsmouth."

Ultimate10002000

07-04-2007, 10:14 PM

Good job Chelsea for winning another crucial game.

widman01

07-04-2007, 11:18 PM

wow, three point now, hopefully still remain until next week.

ceLsius

08-04-2007, 12:38 AM

Nice 30 yrds shot from Carvalho. :D

makirri

08-04-2007, 02:58 AM

great week for CFC :D

i am disappointed manure could not pull away as champ material with all CFC problems.

Jose was right to swan manure people that this time if this situation reveresed, CFC would be clear EPL champs.

differencee between sheer quality champ and kio sai champ :o

ceLsius

08-04-2007, 03:01 AM

Yes Yes Chelsea is gonna win, Chelsea is gonna win!!!! :s13:

Ultimate10002000

09-04-2007, 11:29 PM

Now i am starting to believe Chelsea will have a good chance to win EPL as long as they dont slip up.

Ultimate10002000

09-04-2007, 11:30 PM

Fergie expects Chelsea slip-up

Sir Alex Ferguson insists Manchester United can still prise the Premiership title away from Chelsea despite a shock 2-1 defeat at Portsmouth.

United's lead at the top has been cut to three points, but the Old Trafford boss admits it could go right down to the final game of the season.

Fergie saw an 88th minute own-goal by Rio Ferdinand seal Pompey's 2-1 win even though an error by David James allowed John O'Shea a tap-in reply two minutes later.

Defeat followed Wednesday's 2-1 reverse in the Champions League quarter-final first leg at Roma and Ferguson said: "We were coming off the back of a European tie and that's not easy at the best of times.

"We played for an hour with 10 men on Wednesday night and that caught up with us in the second half today.

"But we are still three points ahead and if I was given that at this stage at the start of the season I would have taken it.

"They are all cup finals now. It doesn't matter who you are up against. After the FA Cup semi final we have a 10-day break and that might just be coming at the right time for us.

"Chelsea have a lot of tough games coming up, too. So someone will make them suffer. It is hard to believe they will go six games without that happening.

"We have our next two at home and have to make the most of that but it could go to the last game now and if so I would settle for thagt.

"In fairness to the lads, the first 20 minutes of the second half was fantastic but then we got stretched and allowed them to open us up far too much.

"But I can't fault the effort and they have shown character all season. I expect them to recover from this now.

"Give Pompey credit, that is the best they have played for some time but for their first goal the rebound went straight to one of their players and that was a bit unfortnate for us.

"David James had a very good game in goal, but goakeepers are often the man-of-the-match against us."

Ferguson did not claim Wayne Rooney's two penalty appeals in the match were justified after TV evidence showed two perfect tackles by Linvoy Primus robbed him but he added: "Rooney was unlucky with an offside decision against him just after the interval."

Pompey boss Harry Redknapp said: "It was a great performance by us and a great result.

"We've beaten United in three of our last four home games now but I don't want to play them every week. We would go down if we did.

"I told the players before the match that they would have to work their socks off to win this one. That's just what they did.

"We pushed onto them and didn't let them create. I was already without Glen Johnson through injury and then Sol Campbell pulled out with an achilles. I don't know how long he will be out.

"But Linvoy Primus did a miracle for us today. He made some magnificent tackles and was superb throughout. He's a marvel.

"Europe? I don't know if we are back in contention for it. It can change so quickly but our tactics worked for us today and everybody was a star.

"We grafted and it paid off and we took our chances.

"The title race will still be very tight. United still have three points and have to go to Chelsea probably with a better goal difference. So you would still have to make them favourites."

Ultimate10002000

09-04-2007, 11:30 PM

Modest Carvalho hailed by Jose

Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho admits he has more confidence than ever before because of the club's "great players in midfield and attack".

Carvalho, who has endured much of the season with a niggling ankle problem, played down one of the most significant contributions of the campaign.

He said: "It was important. We created more chances to win but we didn't score. In the end it was 1-0 and that was okay."

The defender is quite content to sit at the back and do his job without getting the same kind of adulation afforded to player's like Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard and John Terry. But there is no disputing his talent.

"I'm not a player to kick, to shout a lot. I'm a player who likes to play, to have the ball, to help my other defenders. I like to be quiet, I don't mind.

"When I have more confidence to play, I do this. I have more confidence here. But here I don't have to do so much as in Porto because we have great players in midfield and attack."

Didier Drogba has stole most of the headlines this season but Jose Mourinho was full of praise for his defender following his match-winning goal on Saturday.

Mourinho said: "I think sometimes we go day after day for the big names. Big names make big headlines and players like Carvalho are sometimes are players people forget."

Chelsea's victory and United's subsequent defeat on the south coast set them up perfectly for their return leg against Valencia in the Champions League on Tuesday night.

The tie is poised at 1-1 and Chelsea need to score but Mourinho is hoping midfield powerhouse Essien will be back to boost their chances.

Essien has been missing with a knee injury since the FA Cup quarter-final against Spurs at Stamford Bridge but he travelled with the squad to Valencia this weekend.

Mourinho said: "Michael has a chance to play, a little chance. He will be with us in Valencia."

Ultimate10002000

09-04-2007, 11:32 PM

Moretti wary of Blues deadly duo

Emiliano Moretti singled out Chelsea strikers Andriy Shevchenko and Didier Drogba as the main threats to Valencia's Champions League hopes.

Midfielder Moretti admits everything is still to play for in a week which could be crucial to his club's hopes of silverware.

Their shock 1-0 defeat at the hands of Athletic Bilbao has damaged their tilt at the Spanish title but now the Italian believes Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final second-leg match could be all-important.

"That (Bilbao) game is over and now we have another very important game on Tuesday," said Moretti.

"We are thinking of Chelsea and looking forward. Of course it's hard not to think about [Saturday's] game because it's a match we should have won.

"But this is not a bad team and we all know that nothing has been lost.

"We will have to be concentrated for the full 90 minutes and all of us know we are playing one of the best teams in the world," said Moretti.

"They have great potential up front because Drogba and Shevchenko are strikers with a great physical presence and goalscoring ability and they work very well together."

However, the Italian believes his side have the edge ahead of the second leg.

"We have a slender advantage, like we did against Inter," he said, referring to the last 16 victory over Italian champions Inter Milan.

"We hope they will come here and try and attack because they need to win the game because sometimes they don't like to give away any space."

Ultimate10002000

09-04-2007, 11:34 PM

Morientes back to face Chelsea

Valencia will have Fernando Morientes available for Tuesday night's Champions League return leg against Chelsea at the Mestalla.

The Spaniards go into the quarter-final tie on level terms with their English opponents after a battling 1-1 draw - and away goal - at Stamford Bridge last week.

Morientes missed that game after sustaining a shoulder injury while on international duty with Spain, but the experienced striker has recovered and coach Quique Sanchez Flores has confirmed he will come into contention although he may start on the bench.

"Morientes is available for selection," said Sanchez Flores.

"Although I still haven't decided if he will play from the start against Chelsea."

Morientes' return cannot come quickly enough for the hosts, whose squad has been decimated by injuries all season.

The list of walking wounded currently includes Ruben Baraja, Vicente and Edu, while Carlos Marchena and David Navarro are suspended for their part in the brawl which marred Valencia's triumph over Inter Milan in the previous round.

Morientes is Los Che's top scorer in this season's Champions League with five goals and he also has a history against Chelsea in this competition, netting twice against them while playing for Monaco in the 2003/04 semi-finals.

He re-enters the fray with his side nicely placed against Jose Mourinho's men. Sanchez Flores is taking nothing for granted though.

"We knew after the game in London that we had not achieved anything yet," he said.

"We have everything to play for. I think it is going to be a similar game to that at Stamford Bridge, intense and physical.

"I agree with Mourinho, that the game will be decided in the final few minutes."

Valencia were excellent in the first leg and took the lead through David Silva's thunderbolt after half an hour.

Didier Drogba hauled the home side level eight minutes into the second half but Chelsea could not find a winner.

"We have to play with the same intensity," said Sanchez Flores.

"In this competition there is no room for error, we must try to avoid conceding a goal but we must also try to score against Chelsea.

"Mourinho is a good coach who has won titles and I'm sure he will make some tactical changes."

Drogba is the dangerman as far as Sanchez Flores is concerned.

He added: "We will have to limit the supply line to Drogba and (Andriy) Shevchenko.

"We must be sure to keep them away from our area as much as possible.

"It's not easy to mark a player like Drogba, but we need to mark him closely and we will have to defend well."

Sanchez Flores rested a host of key players for Saturday's Primera Liga game against Athletic Bilbao at San Mames and paid the price as the hosts secured a 1-0 win.

That result relegated Valencia to fifth in the table, six points behind leaders Barcelona.

Sanchez Flores still believes the title is within reach, however.

"We are privileged to defend the Spanish honour in the Champions League and we are also privileged to be in the race for the Spanish title with nine games remaining," he said.

Ultimate10002000

12-04-2007, 08:49 PM

Mourinho hints again at Blues exit

Jose Mourinho has issued a further veiled hint he may not be at Chelsea next season as the Blues booked a Champions League semi-final spot.

Mourinho revelled in their 2-1 victory over Valencia - the first in the Mestalla stadium by an English club since Leeds's triumph 40 years ago - but then virtually admitted that it is far from certain he will be at Chelsea next term.

A 90th-minute goal from Michael Essien - playing his first game for a month after recovering from a knee ligament injury - gave Chelsea a memorable European night in Spain.

But Mourinho said ominously: "What I want is to remain in England with Chelsea but sometimes in life you cannot get what you wish and what you want. If I can't coach there I would like to coach another team."

Chelsea remain on course for an unprecedented quadruple after an almighty scare in the Mestalla.

The English champions had looked down and out after former Liverpool striker Fernando Morientes had given the hosts a first-half lead on the night and a 2-1 aggregate advantage.

But Chelsea's fighting spirit, a resilience that has seen them score 25 goals in the final 10 minutes of matches this season, once again came to their rescue.

Andriy Shevchenko, vilified as a failure for much of this season following his £30million move from AC Milan last summer, levelled in the 52nd minute and after Michael Ballack's late header was kept out by a superb one-handed stop from Santiago Canizares, both teams were facing extra-time.

But then up popped the man Mourinho has nicknamed the 'Train' because of his all-action style, and his angled drive went underneath Canizares for the winner.

But the Ghana international will miss the first leg of their semi-final, almost certainly against Liverpool, after picking up an early booking.

Germany international Ballack admitted Chelsea would feel Essien's loss.

Ballack declared: "It is unbelievable that Michael scored the goal because he has waited a long time for his first game back. It was fantastic that he scored the goal.

"He is an important player for us and it is not good that he is suspended. Another player has to play but we have possibilities in midfield.

"We had to score one goal and even though we went 1-0 down, nothing changes. We kept our concentration. In the second half we were very strong and controlled the game. They had just one shot on goal in the second half."

Chelsea now move on to Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Blackburn at Old Trafford and Ballack believes it will be another massive game for the club.

He said: "One important game comes after the other. When you stay in all competitions this is normal. If you lose one game you are out of a competition.

"We have to live with our situation and we are looking forward to Sunday so we can hopefully play in the first final at the new Wembley."

Ultimate10002000

12-04-2007, 08:50 PM

CL semi-final games confirmed

Liverpool visit Chelsea in the Champions League semi-final first leg on April 25, with Manchester United hosting AC Milan the night before.

The last-four fixtures have now been finalised following Wednesday's action.

Sir Alex Ferguson's United side remain on course to repeat the legendary 1999 Treble season and could reach their first Champions League final in eight years.

They will meet Milan, six-times winners and beaten finalists in 2005, at Old Trafford on Tuesday April 24, with the second leg at the San Siro on Wednesday May 2.

Following their famous triumph in Istanbul two years ago, Liverpool could be three games away from lifting a sixth crown in Athens.

But they will first have to stage a repeat of the 2005 semi-final when they engineered a 1-0 aggregate win over Chelsea.

The Reds must travel to Stamford Bridge on Wednesday April 25, before Jose Mourinho's Blues come to Anfield on Tuesday May 1.

Ultimate10002000

12-04-2007, 08:51 PM

Rafa confident of Chelsea scalp

Rafael Benitez feels Liverpool will have the upper hand in their Champions League semi-final with Chelsea because the second leg is at Anfield.

The game will rekindle memories of the momentous clash between the pair two seasons ago when Liverpool won with a disputed Luis Garcia goal before heading off to Istanbul where they beat AC Milan in the final.

Now, once again, Liverpool must go to Stamford Bridge for the first-leg, and Benitez said: "They may not accept what happened here two years ago, but they cannot change things now.

"We are pleased we will play the second-leg at Anfield. If we can do something at Stamford Bridge, maybe we will then have the advantage.

"They know that. But playing counter-attack like they did in Valencia shows how dangerous they are in away games.

"Now it's Chelsea again, they know us and we know them very well. From our point of view it is positive that we are in another semi-final, and to see three English teams at this stage shows just how strong the Premier League is.

"It is really important for the Premier League to show Europe how strong we are, it is the best league in Europe at this moment."

Benitez revealed that striker Craig Bellamy will have a scan on an injured right knee on Thursday and could be out for a fortnight.

That will make it touch and go whether the Welshman is fit for the first leg with Chelsea on April 25.

By then, the war of words and mind games between Benitez and Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho will be in full swing.

Benitez's Liverpool have been thrown into another massive showdown with Chelsea in the semi-finals of the Champions League, after the Anfield men completed the task of beating PSV Eindhoven 4-0 on aggregate in the last eight.

Chelsea had reached the last four and a likely showdown with Liverpool 24 hours earlier by winning 2-1 away to Valencia, Benitez's former club.

And immediately Mourinho claimed that Liverpool will have it easy because they are only chasing one trophy at this stage of the season.

But Benitez was quick to counter, saying: "That is what they want. They must be there and they must compete for every competition, that is their aim."

And Benitez was equally prepared to explain the frosty relationship he now has with Mourinho, which has involved a trend of not shaking hands after matches this term between the clubs.

Benitez said: "We were good friends until we (Liverpool) started winning, then he started changing his mind.

"It is the same with all the managers of the top sides. He has very good relationships with managers of teams that normally he beats.

"Then he started fighting with the managers of the top sides. He has already started it with us, yesterday!"

But Benitez was predictably confident Liverpool can repeat the semi-final success they achieved over Chelsea two seasons ago.

He said: "Always as a manager you must be confident your team can win, and any Liverpool team will always be confident.

"But we know Chelsea are a very good team, in the last five years they have spent big money on players and they have a very good squad.

"They will be tough. They have spent money for five years, they are in other semi-finals and chasing trophies, that is what they want and have prepared for. Yes we only have one trophy to go for, but they would not want to change what they are doing now."

Eindhoven boss Ronald Koeman also accepted the dominance of English football.

He said: "It has been a great season for English clubs - Chelsea, Manchester United and now Liverpool in the semi-finals.

"This demonstrates how strong their league is. But they have the money, the best players and the best coaches."

On his own club's performance in a 1-0 defeat, following the 3-0 mauling they suffered in the first-leg, Koeman said: "We deserved more for the way we played.

"We were disciplined and organised. But the referee did not help in sending off Dirk Marcellis.

"It was barely a yellow card. When you make a decision like that you show you do not know football."

Ultimate10002000

12-04-2007, 08:51 PM

Frankie says Blues cannot relax

Frank Lampard says Chelsea will not be complacent in the FA Cup semi-final against Blackburn following the euphoria of their win over Valencia.

Chelsea's stunning success over Valencia and Liverpool's aggregate victory over PSV Eindhoven set up a repeat of their controversial clash at the same stage of the competition two years ago.

The Blues next face Blackburn at Old Trafford on Sunday and Lampard said: "We cannot relax going into the game - that would be naive and stupid. We have to pay ultimate respect to them for the season they are having and the players they have got.

"Mark Hughes has done very well and he is a very good manager. He will be, at some time the future, a top, top, manager. Whether that will be at Blackburn or not, I don't know.

"But he has done a fantastic job there. I don't know him particularly well but I like his character and you can see he is a strong man. People at Chelsea have a lot of good things to say about him."

Ultimate10002000

12-04-2007, 08:52 PM

Mourinho vows to stay with Chelsea

Jose Mourinho has reiterated his desire to remain at Chelsea - although he did hint at possibly joining another Premiership club in the future.

The Portuguese boss, speaking in an interview with Spanish newspaper Marca, insists he is happy at Stamford Bridge and again played down speculation linking him with a summer move to Real Madrid.

"I don't want my name linked with Madrid or with any other club because I want to stay with Chelsea," said Mourinho.

"I've got a contract until 2010 and I want to carry on.

"If I have to leave for some reason or because someone wants me to... that's life in soccer.

"And if I leave, I want to keep coaching next season at another European club. I like English soccer and I'd like to coach another club in the Premiership, but not now.

"I don't imagine leaving Chelsea and going straight to another English club. It would be a very strange situation and I don't want it to happen."

Mourinho described his time at Chelsea as "historic" after leading the club to two Premiership titles after joining the club in 2004 from Porto, with whom he won the Champions League.

"I have done work in these three years which could be termed historic, because some of the things we have done can only be described this way," he added.

"This season has been the best of all because we have had to overcome some incredible problems.

"It's been unbelievable what we've suffered because of injury problems this season, and look what we're still managing to do."

Mourinho was not willing to discuss his relationship with club owner Roman Abramovich which has been the subject of much speculation in recent months.

"My work is with the players, we are the ones that win and lose the games. I don't want to talk about my relationship with Abramovich," said Mourinho.

widman01

14-04-2007, 10:53 AM

BARCLAYS AWARDS DOUBLE FOR CHELSEA
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has won the Barclays Manager of the Month Award for March with Blues goalkeeper Petr Cech named the Barclays Player of the Month.
The Stamford Bridge outfit were honoured after recording four straight Barclays Premiership wins without conceding a single goal.

Chelsea started the month in style with a 2-0 away success at Portsmouth. This was followed by a 1-0 away win at Manchester City and a conclusive 3-0 home triumph against Sheffield United before Salomon Kalou’s last-minute winner secured a 1-0 victory over Watford.

Despite being named the Barclays Manager of the Year 2005/6, this is the first monthly award Mourinho has picked up since January 2005, and the first time Cech has ever picked up the player accolade.

--------------

"I won nine consecutive matches this season. After that I won again a period of a lot of matches. I was never, never, never the manager of the month. Not one single time.

LOL manager of the month finally.

Ultimate10002000

14-04-2007, 09:26 PM

Mourinho ponders semi-final line-up

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho does not have any fresh injury concerns ahead of Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against Blackburn at Old Trafford.

Michael Essien came through the midweek Champions League win in Valencia unscathed after recovering from his knee problem.

Dutch winger Arjen Robben remains sidelined with a knee injury.

Joe Cole will hoping to start after impressing when coming off the bench in the midweek victory over Valencia.

Kick-off at Old Trafford is at 4pm.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Carvalho, Terry, Boulahrouz, A Cole, Bridge, J Cole, Makelele, Ballack, Lampard, Essien, Diarra, Obi, Shevchenko, Drogba, Kalou, Wright-Phillips.

Ultimate10002000

14-04-2007, 09:27 PM

Hiddink: No talks over Blues job

Guus Hiddink has dismissed reports he will replace Jose Mourinho as Chelsea manager this summer, saying he is 'satisfied' working for Russia.

Speculation continues to suggest that Mourinho will be forced out of Stamford Bridge after falling out with Blues owner Roman Abramovich earlier this season.

But Russia coach Hiddink told BBC's Football Focus: "It's not an issue, I work with a lot of satisfaction where I am now.

"I still have a year on my contract with Russia. I hope we will qualify for Euro 2008 and that I can go on with Russia."

Hiddink feels the source of the rumours about a move to Chelsea is the fact he is charge of Russia - Abramovich's homeland.

He added: "I am linked with the job because Roman Abramovich is the owner of Chelsea and he is Russian and I am the Russia coach.

"Let's be frank and open, every now and then I do talk to him - but not about the Chelsea job.

"Chelsea are doing really well in the Champions League and it's not an issue for me, nor is it for them."

Ultimate10002000

14-04-2007, 09:28 PM

Mourinho focused on job in hand

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho admits his side's hectic schedule has left him with little time to think about his future at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho revealed on Friday that his attempts to seek clarification on his future from the Chelsea board had been met with silence.

The Portuguese claimed he was willing to commit to the Stamford Bridge club beyond the end of the current season if only his services would continue to be required.

But for now Mourinho has his hands more than full, as he seeks to take another major step in Chelsea's bid for an unprecedented quadruple with Sunday's FA Cup semi-final with Blackburn at Old Trafford.

He said: "Because of our situation in the competitions. In this moment you don't have much time to spend with other things.

"If in this moment I was not playing Champions League and FA Cup and all of these things, if I was just coming here in the morning, training and going home with not a lot of matches, maybe I would have time to think about the future.

"Success is about groups. When we fail I accept the manager is the face of the failure, when we win I don't accept the manager is the face of the success.

"The players have been absolutely fantastic. The injured guys, the way they recovered, they way they go to the team and perform immediately.

"The boys like Frank Lampard, Ricardo Carvalho, Didier Drogba, these people that play since the first day of the season have been unbelievable.

"After that everybody is giving his maximum. The season has been difficult but great. This is a very, very special group."

Mourinho was on Friday candid about his attempts to extend his stay at Stamford Bridge into next season and beyond.

He declared: "Chief-executive Peter Kenyon and I have a lot of meetings. I told the board in person I want to stay.

"I was satisfied with their reaction, Peter Kenyon told me 'great, I'm very happy with your decision'."

But crucially, when Mourinho was asked why he does not say the board are happy for him to stay at the club next term, he replied: "Because nobody told me."

Mourinho added: "I love the club, I love English football. I can say for example that we have told the school that we want to keep their place next season."

Ultimate10002000

15-04-2007, 09:15 AM

Jose: Abramovich must speak up

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho has hinted that it is time for billionaire owner Roman Abramovich to clear the air over his future at the club.

Mourinho has done an exceptional job of taking the pressure off his players during a sensational season that sees them remaining in the hunt for an unprecedented four trophies.

Under Mourinho's remarkable leadership, Chelsea have already won the Carling Cup and remain on course for glory in the Champions League, the FA Cup and the Premiership.

But the speculation over his future continues to manifest itself with talk of a summer departure to Real Madrid constantly on the agenda.

Mourinho has admitted the Chelsea board have not told him if he will be at the club after the end of the season.

Now, as Mourinho prepares his side for their FA Cup semi-final against Blackburn at Old Trafford on Sunday, he would like the Blues hierarchy to take some of the pressure off him for a change.

Mourinho declared: "If I could choose I wouldn't speak. If people higher in the club speak, I don't speak so much. So please speak and give me some free time.

"Managers and players have the contractual obligation to come and talk and the other people, they can make a choice."

But when asked if he would like the people above him at the club to speak, he replied: "Yes. I think the same way I take pressure off of my players by speaking more than them, if the people on the top of me could speak and leave me free of this pressure in my life it would be better for me. It would be easier for me.

"Supporters? They know. From me they know everything. Imagine if in the end of the season I tell to the club 'Goodbye, I go', what do the people think about me? This guy is a liar.

"So no doubts. I've left everything very, very clear. That is what is in my head. If in the end of the season I'm leaving the club you have the right to come to me and say: 'Jose, you are a liar'.

"I told Peter Kenyon that I want to stay in Chelsea and that I refuse to speak with other clubs. I told my agent Jorge Mendes that it is forbidden to speak with other clubs.

"Peter Kenyon told me 'Fantastic, I'm very happy with your decision' and we had a hug."

But while Mourinho insists he wants to see out a contract that has three years left to run, he admits he has to balance that with the loss of some of his freedom.

Talking about one of his dislikes about managing in England, Mourinho said: "I don't like the fact that I lost my private life and my family is paying that and it affects me, and affects my wife and my kids and it effects everybody.

"But that's not me and that's every manager and every player that works at a high level. Our face is in the media every day and that effects all of us.

"Other famous people in other professional areas are even worse than us because some guys in cinema and music and this and that, I suppose they cannot put one single foot in the street. And we can, so I don't think we are the worst."

Mourinho is expecting a highly-charged Blackburn at Old Trafford because, for some of their players, he claims it will be the 'game of their lives'.

Mourinho added: "Okay they have Benni McCarthy and I suppose Tugay who won trophies in Turkey.

"But they don't have many who have won trophies and I think that's the threat. Their motivation will be very, very high. It's the game of their life, it's the game of the season for them and motivation sometimes makes miracles."

Scuderia

15-04-2007, 02:32 PM

Blues News 13.04.07
SiU7GE0aQAU

widman01

16-04-2007, 03:13 AM

well done chelsea,

united next... cannot wait for 19 May.

ceLsius

16-04-2007, 12:33 PM

We go for 9 May Premiereship encounter with ManYoo first and whack their confidence b4 the FA cup finals. :s13:

RVN

17-04-2007, 02:25 AM

We go for 9 May Premiereship encounter with ManYoo first and whack their confidence b4 the FA cup finals. :s13:

what a prick, arrogant boasting, nothing is certain yet.

oh what a miss by Sheva. :s13:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPiSq-mdnnA

Scuderia

17-04-2007, 02:41 AM

Blues News 16.04.07
2LQ9N28KAOo

ceLsius

17-04-2007, 02:45 AM

what a prick, arrogant boasting, nothing is certain yet.

oh what a miss by Sheva. :s13:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPiSq-mdnnA

Does it matter? After all, we are in a results business. ;)

widman01

17-04-2007, 12:42 PM

oh what a miss by Sheva. :s13:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPiSq-mdnnA

agree, what a miss.

IMO, Rio Ferdinand is much better than him :s13:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQnrBqC63w4

Scuderia

18-04-2007, 04:21 PM

Blues News 17.04.07
mFQGxV6hIS8

Scuderia

19-04-2007, 06:30 PM

Blue News 18.04.07
L4EYTFJzRw0

Scuderia

21-04-2007, 03:26 PM

Blues News 20.04.07
52uDfcvL7-U

Ultimate10002000

21-04-2007, 07:56 PM

Shevchenko set for Toon tussle

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has no fresh injury worries ahead of the club's vital Premiership trip to Newcastle on Sunday afternoon.

Ukrainian striker Andriy Shevchenko is expected to have shaken off the minor leg injury that kept him out of the 4-1 win over West Ham in midweek.

Arjen Robben is recovering from knee ligament damage but is not ready to return to first-team action.

Kick-off at St James' Park is at 1:30pm.

Chelsea (from): Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Diarra, Geremi, Carvalho, Terry, A Cole, Bridge, Obi, Makelele, Lampard, Essien, Ballack, Wright-Phillips, Drogba, Shevchenko, J Cole, Kalou.

Ultimate10002000

21-04-2007, 07:56 PM

Lamps happy with close-run title

Frank Lampard believes competition for Chelsea at the top of the Premiership is healthy for English football.

Chelsea cruised to the title in the last two seasons but have now been challenged at the summit by Manchester United, who are three points ahead at the top of the table with five games remaining.

The duel has captured the imagination of the public, with United the first team to mount a serious challenge to Chelsea since Jose Mourinho took over as boss at Stamford Bridge.

"We've won the league pretty comfortably for the last two years and this year Manchester United have upped it so it's been a bit different," said Lampard, the 28-year-old England international.

"It's been a much closer race and I think it's probably not a bad thing for English football because everyone likes to see a good battle to the end."

Cristiano Ronaldo has led the United challenge and has developed into one of the finest players in the world, while Didier Drogba has kept Chelsea in the hunt for the quadruple with his 31 goals.

Lampard believes both would be worthy winners of the PFA Player of the Year award.

"I think they are both well deserved if they win it," he said on his video diary on Orange's website.

"I think Ronaldo's ability on the ball is amazing and, the way he's played this season, he's been one of the best players in the Premier League and probably in the world.

"It's great to see a player with skills who can excite so much."

He added: "Didier's goals record has been so prolific. He's scored crucial goals, he's scored the easy goals, the little tap-ins, he's scored great goals that have won us games.

"He's been the best striker in the world this season and that's a massive achievement."

Ultimate10002000

21-04-2007, 07:57 PM

Kenyon: Blues will not sack Mourinho

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon claims the Premiership champions have no intention of sacking manager Jose Mourinho in the summer.

Speculation over Mourinho's future had refused to stop despite Chelsea's quest for glory on four fronts and the uncertainty over his longevity resulted in 13 managers being linked with his job.

But Kenyon denied that a shortlist of possible successors had been drawn up by the club and maintained that no-one else had been offered the job.

In a statement on the club's official website, Kenyon said: "José has a contract to 2010 and he wants to stay.

"We are not going to sack him, he has the club's support. That's the situation and we are agreed on it."

Chelsea won the Carling Cup in February and remain in the hunt for the Premiership title, the Champions League crown and the FA Cup - with a final against Manchester United confirmed for next month.

But rumours suggesting Mourinho would be axed at the end of the season left a cloud hanging over their achievements.

The Portuguese coach was alleged to have had a bust-up with the club's billionaire Russian owner Roman Abramovich over the lack of cash to strengthen the squad in the January transfer window and the role in the side of struggling Ukrainian striker Andriy Shevchenko.

Mourinho has always insisted he wants to remain at the club until the end of his contract, which expires in three years.

But his future remained at the centre of intense speculation, in the absence of a clear statement from the club.

Indeed, Mourinho claimed only last week that nobody on the Chelsea board had told him he would still be at the club next season even though Kenyon was delighted to hear of his plans to stay.

But now the Blues have moved to put an end to the rumours by making it clear that Mourinho will not be sacked in the summer.

Kenyon added: "I would like to be clear on one thing. We support José as manager and given the level of speculation, where we are now is an even bigger achievement.

"Whatever you have read or heard, no lists of candidates have been drawn up, no-one has been offered the job. So let's put that to bed straight away.

"Hopefully the speculation will stop and I think it should. As far as we are all concerned what is most important is that it is business as usual at Chelsea and putting all our energy into winning the three remaining trophies."

Kenyon also admitted that although talks over contract extensions for captain John Terry and midfielder Frank Lampard had yet to be concluded, there was no cause for concern.

Terry confirmed earlier this week that he was unhappy with the contract extension on offer from Chelsea and would not be making the first move to resolve the impasse.

The England captain is understood to have wanted a nine-year deal and wages of around £130,000-a-week but Chelsea's offer fell some way short of his requirements.

However, despite the collapse of contract negotiations, Terry insists he wants to remain at Stamford Bridge for life.

Lampard has yet to be offered a formal contract extension by the club and is frustrated the situation is not moving faster.

But Kenyon moved to reassure fans that the club intend to do everything they can to hang on to their England duo.

Kenyon said: "Every contract is unique, no two contracts are the same.

"Michael Essien, Wayne Bridge and Didier Drogba have all signed new deals. That's fantastic news for the future of Chelsea.

"John Terry and Frank Lampard are not yet completed. That's football.

"What's important to remember about contract speculation is that there are only two definitive stages, when the discussions start and when they end, either with an agreement or with no agreement. And at the moment we are in between those situations.

"Again, I don't want anything to deflect us from our main goal, winning matches and trophies.

"And I think the players we have been talking to agree, both John and Frank have said similar."

Ultimate10002000

21-04-2007, 07:57 PM

Didier is top Drog - Lampard

Frank Lampard feels Didier Drogba should be crowned PFA Player of the Year because he has been the "best striker in the world this season".

The Ivory Coast international, 29, has netted 31 goals to keep the Blues on the heels of Manchester United in the Premiership and also on track for FA Cup and Champions League glory to add to their Carling Cup triumph.

Drogba faces stiff competition from bookmakers' favourite Cristiano Ronaldo for the accolade, which will be presented following a gala dinner in London on Sunday night.

However, England midfielder Lampard - himself shortlisted in 2005 and 2006 - feels his team-mate has the edge.

"From working so closely with Didier, I really feel he deserves to get it because he has been the best striker in the world this season," said Lampard, 28.

"But they are both well deserving of winning the award.

"Ronaldo's ability on the ball is amazing - the way he has been playing recently shows he is one of the best players in the Premiership and probably the world at the moment.

"It is great to see a player with skill that excites you so much.

"But the reason I would give it to Didier is because his goals record has been so prolific.

"He has scored crucial goals, he has scored easy goals, the little tap-ins and the great goals that have won us games."

Ronaldo, 22, has been in awesome form for United this season, as the Red Devils remain on course for a potential Premiership, FA Cup and Champions League treble themselves.

Having recently agreed a new, lucrative five-year deal at Old Trafford, the future is bright for the Portugal winger, who faced an uncertain future after some harsh criticism in the fall-out from his part in England's World Cup demise last summer.

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate believes Ronaldo and Drogba would both be worthy winners.

"I think Ronaldo and Didier Drogba will be the two leading candidates for that award and rightly so," he said.

"They are both leaders on the pitch for their teams, even though they are not captains.

"Drogba has been phenomenal for Chelsea, not just for the goals he's scored but for his leadership.

"You look for leaders and he's a rare commodity."

Ronaldo's team-mates Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs, Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas and last year's winner Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool captain, complete the shortlist.

Both Ronaldo and Fabregas will be up against England forward Wayne Rooney in the young player category.

The United striker, 21, has won the award for the past two years and is joined among the 2007 nominees by Reading striker Kevin Doyle, 23, Tottenham winger Aaron Lennon, 19, and 18-year-old defender Micah Richards, of Manchester City.

Ultimate10002000

21-04-2007, 07:58 PM

Jose braced for silverware sprint

Jose Mourinho is able to focus all his energy on completing an unprecedented Quadruple at Chelsea after learning he will not be sacked.

Chief executive Peter Kenyon on Friday reassured Mourinho that his job was safe as the club looked to put an end to constant speculation over their coach's future.

A total of 13 managers have been linked with the Blues as possible successors to Mourinho but Kenyon insisted no shortlist had been drawn up and, more importantly, no-one else had been offered the job.

Kenyon told Chelsea TV: "Jose has a contract to 2010 and he wants to stay. We are not going to sack him, he has the club's support. That's the situation and we are agreed on it.

"We support Jose as manager and given the level of speculation, where we are now is an even bigger achievement.

"Whatever you have read or heard, no lists of candidates have been drawn up, no one has been offered the job. So let's put that to bed straight away.

"Hopefully, the speculation will stop and I think it should. As far as we are all concerned, what is most important is that it is business as usual at Chelsea and putting all our energy into winning the three remaining trophies."

One of those trophies is the hunt for a third successive Premiership crown and Chelsea go to Newcastle on Sunday hoping Manchester United will have dropped points at home to Middlesbrough.

But even though PFA Player of the Year nominee Didier Drogba notched his 31st goal of the season in the 4-1 win over relegation-haunted West Ham on Wednesday night, Mourinho has paid tribute to Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho as they prepare for the trip to Tyneside.

It will be Carvalho's 50th match of the season and Mourinho said: "The West Ham game was very difficult but we played very well and, with the fourth goal, the game was over.

"Didier and Lamps [Frank Lampard] are the kind of guys who, even without people knowing, will play with injuries and sickness.

"They are the ones who deserve a lot the rest and Ricardo is another one who deserves it, but the central defender position is difficult to change during a game.

"It is Ricardo's best season with me. For a long period there was no Petr Cech behind him, no John Terry alongside and no Michael Essien in front and he was amazing.

"Thursday was quite interesting because I gave the players a day off and, in the morning, eight of them were at the training ground, looking after themselves, having massage and treatment to small problems.

"You can see how committed and professional people are.

"You can talk about Lamps and Didier but at West Ham, I think everybody had a rest towards the end of the 90 minutes because we passed the ball well and everybody was in a situation to save."

Chelsea should have Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko back in the squad after he missed the victory over West Ham with a minor leg injury sustained in the FA Cup semi-final win over Blackburn last Sunday.

Ultimate10002000

21-04-2007, 07:59 PM

Keep up the good work Chelsea and i am sure this team can win the EPL again. I got a feeling Man U will slip down and lose points again in one of the upcoming matches.

yingchin

22-04-2007, 12:32 AM

ceLsius

22-04-2007, 02:29 AM

Guys...just a crazy idea, what if Jose Mourinho win all four cup, and the rich Russia Boss decide to ask him pack his bag, and guess who is replacing Jose Mourinho? Arsene Wenger!!
Jose Mourinho to Arsenal, exchange manger and take revenage

Why the hell Chelsea would take Wenger even if Mourinho would to go? There are at least a dozen managers out there so much better than Wenger. No chance for such a scenario.

Man U drop pts liao, gd for us. ;)

widman01

22-04-2007, 02:29 AM

if he win all four cup, he is untouchable.

makirri

22-04-2007, 10:12 AM

A tricky tie a day after manure drop pts. :yawn:
good thing newcastle is not consider bogey team. Jose made positive results against them.

Ultimate10002000

22-04-2007, 11:46 AM

Taylor made to stop Drogba

Newcastle defender Steven Taylor has set his sights on shutting out Chelsea hitman Didier Drogba to further enhance his growing reputation.

The 21-year-old will go head-to-head with the man who, during his time at Marseille, denied the Magpies a place in the UEFA Cup final, when the title-contenders arrive at St James' Park on Sunday.

Drogba has plundered 31 goals to date this season, the last of them in Wednesday night's crushing 4-1 victory over West Ham at Upton Park.

However, Taylor is relishing the chance to pitch himself into battle with one of the most dangerous frontmen in Europe.

He said: "Drogba has had an unbelievable season. He has scored a lot of goals and he will cause problems for any defence in the world.

"As a player, you want to test yourself against the best, and he falls into that category.

"But they have got so many quality players, it is not just Drogba. It is no surprise they have done so well this season.

"They are still in the Champions League and the FA Cup and it looks like the title race is going to go all the way.

"We have just got to be positive ourselves in what we do. We have caused them problems in the past, and we know we are capable of getting a result."

It will be the third time the two sides have met this season with Drogba securing 1-0 victories for the reigning champions on both occasions - a Barclays Premiership clash at Stamford Bridge on December 13 and a Carling Cup quarter-final on Tyneside a week later.

However, Taylor and his colleagues may prefer to recall the final game of last season when a Titus Bramble strike handed the Magpies all three points and booked their place in the Intertoto Cup.

Bramble could be recalled to central defence alongside the England Under-21 international as manager Glenn Roeder attempts to engineer a positive finish to a difficult campaign.

However, with the former Ipswich man, Craig Moore and loan signing Oguchi Onyewu unlikely to be at St James' Park next season, it is Taylor who is looking to finally provide a solution to the problem which has dogged the club for years.

His no-nonsense approach to defending and his ability to contribute important goals have gone down well with the fans, although individual ambitions are secondary for the player.

Taylor said: "We have got four games left and we know what we have to do. We are looking for a strong finish to the season.

"We go into the game as underdogs - and I do not think too many people will fancy us - but that does not bother us.

"We have played well against Chelsea twice this season and been unlucky to lose both times.

"We have got a good record against them under Jose Mourinho at home, and we want to continue that. We beat them at home last season and there is no reason why we cannot do it again."

That would go down well with Magpies midfielder Nicky Butt's old friends at Manchester United, who currently enjoy a three-point lead over their only challengers for the title.

Butt has revived his career on Tyneside after returning from a season-long loan spell at Birmingham, and has been one of the few conspicuous successes this term.

However, while the 32-year-old knows former boss Sir Alex Ferguson would be delighted to see him emerge from Sunday's game with something to show for his efforts, Newcastle's needs will come first.

Butt said: "We probably could do Manchester United a favour, but I am more worried about us. I just want to try as hard as I can for Newcastle United.

"You always look forward to playing one of the big guns, especially at St James's Park.

"If we can finish seventh or eighth this season, it will be a good season considering everything."

Ultimate10002000

22-04-2007, 11:47 AM

Ultimate10002000

22-04-2007, 11:47 AM

Mourinho makes man out of Mikel

Jose Mourinho has revealed how he turned Mikel John Obi from a problem child into a man after bringing the Nigerian midfielder to Chelsea.

Mikel has eventually proven a revelation this season and has often been preferred to veteran holding midfielder Claude Makelele during Chelsea's chase for glory on an unprecedented four fronts.

The turnaround in the player's fortunes has been incredible following a period when poor discipline threatened to undermine his Chelsea future.

The player, signed from Lyn Oslo for £14million in controversial circumstances last summer, was axed from the squad at one point by Mourinho because he was late for training and wore the wrong club shirt to the team hotel.

The Portuguese coach was also concerned about the people Mikel was associating with off the field and decided, with the help of his coaching staff and senior players, to resolve such issues once and for all.

The decision has produced some spectacular results and if he is picked to face Newcastle on his 20th birthday on Sunday, suspension apart, he will have been involved in all but one of the 21 games since Chelsea were last beaten in January.

Mourinho revealed: "We went through phases. The first phase was for him to realise where he was, the kind of responsibilities he has and to change his life and his mentality.

"He had to think as a professional, not as an amateur, and to think he had a lot to learn and is not the best player in the world.

"We had some little problems with him, not because he was a bad boy, or a bad professional, just because he was not used to football at a high level.

"We kicked him a lot. He didn't make big mistakes but we felt we should attack the small mistakes to make him realise he should be different.

"In that aspect, everyone in the club contributed to making him a man. He was not the first and won't be the last football player to come late to a training session.

"He was not the first and won't be the last to make a mistake with the shirt he has to wear to a hotel.

"We attacked him very strongly on these little details and it was a period that made an impact on him.

"He realised how a professional has to be. I think I had an easy job in the education because I had top professional players with me.

"When I have such great role models, it is easy to educate the boy. I could say 'did you see [Frank] Lampard coming in late, [Ricardo] Carvalho training bad or [Michael] Ballack making a mistake with the shirt? Did you see John Terry not playing because he has a small injury?'

"It is easy to do it. I think I had an easy job. I asked some players - Didier [Drogba], Maka [Makelele] and African boys more connected in the cultural level - to help me with this fight - and the progression was fantastic!"

It has been amazing since the turn of the year as, prior to Christmas, Mikel had four starts and eight games off the bench to his name.

In recent weeks, the youngster has been selected as the anchor midfielder, whether in a four-man or a three-man midfield.

That has included high-pressure matches, such as the two Champions League legs against Valencia and the FA Cup replay at Tottenham.

It has left Mourinho hailing Mikel's "genius" in that position.

Mourinho added: "Around the world we have some players in that position with different qualities. John with the ball is so simple and simple in football in this kind of position means genius.

"I think he's a genius in that position. He doesn't lose the ball and he passes the ball so simply. He plays one or two-touch football and the team plays a very good possession game with him in that position.

"And defensively, he is improving a lot. I think his best position is that position."

Ultimate10002000

22-04-2007, 11:48 AM

Mourinho: Blues shouldn't miss Train

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho believes his side can cope without Michael Essien in Wednesday's Champions League semi-final against Liverpool.

Mourinho will be without the man he calls 'The Train' as they look to gain a first-leg advantage at home to the Reds.

Essien was formerly known as 'The Bison' until Mourinho decided his all-action displays were more reminiscent of an express train than a type of wild cattle.

The Ghana international certainly kept Chelsea on the right track in their quarter-final second leg against Valencia when he scored the last-gasp matchwinner that set up a rematch with the Merseysiders.

It was Essien's first game back in the side following a knee injury sustained in the FA Cup quarter-final draw with Tottenham at Stamford Bridge on March 11 and he capped his comeback with the decisive goal.

But Essien's first-minute booking in the same leg rules him out of the opening game with Liverpool and Mourinho's side know exactly what they will be missing.

Mourinho said: "Essien is a special player. He is an athlete. He can run forever. He could play a game every day. He is a superb athlete. When we lost him one month ago, it was a big, big loss.

"But he was ready to come back for the Valencia game. I know he is suspended for the next game but this one was the crucial one. The next one is not crucial."

But Mourinho refused to be drawn on getting revenge against Liverpool for their semi-final defeat two years ago when Luis Garcia's controversial winner was adjudged to have crossed the line.

Mourinho still insists the ball was cleared by William Gallas before it had fully crossed the line but is determined not to hype up the rematch a grudge encounter.

Mourinho added: "Revenge is not for me. It is not a word for me in football or life. We know we start from behind and why - it is simple because Liverpool plays only Champions League, we play everything else.

"We have players suspended and on yellow cards and Liverpool is in a very clean situation so I think they start in front of us.

"But the mentality and the character my players are showing - we will be ready for them."

Ultimate10002000

22-04-2007, 11:50 AM

Ok good to see that Man U drop points again just as i have predicted. Now it is time for Chelsea to close the gap. Hope the team can get the full 3 points from Newcastle.

ceLsius

22-04-2007, 11:50 AM

Chelsea will be brimming with confidence when the latest news of Kenyon announcing they will not sack Mourinho + Man U last night drop points. What more can we ask for? :D

makirri

22-04-2007, 11:54 AM

ceLsius

22-04-2007, 11:58 AM

Good to see Jose again training unknown players to stars :D

essien should be in the PFA list. i already observed him as one of most improved and important player since the start.

dunno how manure can get up to 3 players in the list. :s22:

Don't you know? Officials are afraid of "Upsetting" Alex Ferguson..... Man U was real lucky last night left to "enjoy" the 1 point with the boro pk not given.

makirri

22-04-2007, 12:04 PM

yep manure has riden some luck this season. alex furgie already psycho the media that the whole of england wants manure to win.

it will be a great story for CFC to complete this season as overall winners. against all odds and also show to critics that "millioniares" can fight and get down dirty as a team.

i have not seen such fighting spirit for a long long time in EPL, if there is even once. ;)

croc1977

22-04-2007, 11:26 PM

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/1663/songbo028nu.jpg

damm du lan u 2,....when our team something wrong ...always out this....

RVN

24-04-2007, 12:48 AM

**** you chelscum, you didn't take adantage of our slip-up and start all this petty insults at us, moaninho is just losing it big time with his outburst.

yingchin

24-04-2007, 12:56 AM

Oh this is sian man...cannot close the gap to one point....

I think the special one better drop ballack, add, Joe cole and SWP
The match against Newcastle totally cannot make it, def at both flank tio att, Paolo Ferreira nt sharp enough, not playing for long time
Diamond nt sharp and fast enough, the "kick the ball to Drogba n see what he can do " tactic didn't work

Pls man, if play like this against Liverpool
死路一條

Chelsea +U +U

Scuderia

25-04-2007, 03:19 AM

Blues News 24.04.07
q2fuV5nGOX0

Ultimate10002000

26-04-2007, 08:42 PM

Cole ends injury hell with key goal

Joe Cole made up a season of hell with the goal that earned Chelsea a 1-0 win over Liverpool in their Champions League semi-final first leg.

Cole, sidelined for the majority of the season with knee and foot injuries, celebrated only his second start since his return to first team action with the decisive goal in a pulsating clash at Stamford Bridge.

It keeps Chelsea on course for a Champions League showdown with Manchester United on May 23 in Athens - a final that would be a fitting showdown to a season in which both teams have dominated the English and European stage.

Liverpool and AC Milan will be determined to prevent such a spectacle taking place - but the Merseysiders will have to show more effort and endeavour in the return leg at Anfield if they are to reach the final.

Rafael Benitez's men were outplayed for long periods by a fatigued Chelsea side that simply refused to buckle under the strain of chasing glory on three fronts.

For a side which has already won the Carling Cup, are set to face United in the FA Cup final and remain in contention for the Premiership title, their sheer strength and desire has to be applauded and marvelled at.

Although this semi-final never scaled the heights of United's thrilling victory over AC Milan, it was a game that showcased everything that is best about English football.

Mourinho's pre-match assertion that fatigue would play a part in the outcome of tie proved to be another well-crafted piece of psychological bunkum as Chelsea's players matched their opponents in every department.

The opening period belonged to the Blues and Cole's goal was just reward for a display which had Liverpool pegged back deep in their own half for long spells.

The English champions could have been in front as early as the eighth minute when Ashley Cole's cross was headed down by Didier Drogba for Lampard to fire in a shot which brought an excellent save from Jose Reina.

It was a warning that Liverpool failed to heed and when John Arne Riise's pass was intercepted by Drogba three minutes later, Chelsea looked certain to open their account.

But the Ivorian striker, with 31 goals to his credit this season, failed to find Joe Cole with his pass and another opportunity went begging.

Drogba's lack of bravery moments later allowed Liverpool to escape yet again when he paid far too much attention to the onrushing Reina than the flight of Joe Cole's cross and missed the ball completely.

When Frank Lampard's free-kick flew inches wide of Reina's right-hand upright in the 22nd minute, Mourinho could have been forgiven for thinking it was not going to be his side's night.

But all that changed seven minutes later with a goal of such simplicity that it was difficult to believe Chelsea had scored it against a side with one of the meanest defences in England.

It began with Ricardo Carvalho breaking-up a Liverpool attack and racing out of defence before slipping a sublime pass to Drogba. The striker, who gave Daniel Agger a torrid evening, turned him superbly before crossing for Cole to find the net from six yards.

Liverpool, not surprisingly, upped the pace of their own game in the second period and it almost paid dividends.

But in Petr Cech, Chelsea have a guardian of the sticks who, like Cole, epitomises the spirit of defiance in the Stamford Bridge camp.

Cech, out for three months with a fractured skull sustained in a Barclays Premiership match against Reading last October and who still has to wear a protective helmet, flung himself to his left to keep out a goalbound volley from Steven Gerrard.

Liverpool were now in the ascendancy but despite replacing Craig Bellamy with the lanky frame of England striker Peter Crouch, they failed to produce another telling moment.

Instead it was Reina who kept Liverpool in the tie with a fantastic save to deny Lampard when the England midfielder volleyed the ball towards the top corner 10 minutes from time.

Drogba almost scored a second in stoppage-time but headed wide of the target from six yards.

The tie remains delicately poised ahead of the return leg at Anfield and while Liverpool will feel they are capable of overcoming the deficit, Chelsea's remarkable spirit may prove to be unbreakable yet again.