Drogba hailed for key role in Chelsea´s revival

Ivory Coast forward Didier Drogba has been singled out by Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink as one the key factors behind the Premier League team’s resurgence.

Drogba had been frozen out at Stamford Bridge by former boss Luiz Felipe Scolari but was restored to the side immediately after the former Brazil coach was sacked earlier this month.

And, after impressing in the 1-0 win at Aston Villa last weekend, Drogba confirmed his return from exile by scoring the only goal of the game in Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Juventus.

Prior to Hiddink’s arrival, doubts had been expressed about Drogba’s commitment to the Blues, with the forward being linked with a move away, particularly to former club Marseille.

But Hiddink insists the player has been anything but a disruptive influence and believes Drogba is contributing as much off the pitch as he is on it.

“I knew about Didier because of his performances in the World Cup and other tournaments, but I didn’t know him personally,” Hiddink said. “But I’m very positive about his contribution.

“On the pitch he is fighting for every ball so the other ones can take advantage of that. And besides that he got his goal.

“Off the pitch he is a great example in the dressing room to make the team strong. So he is not just for himself, he is very committed with the rest of the team as well. So I cannot find one detail that’s not okay.

“I don’t know how it was before but he has responded to the team which is important.

“I’m not the most important man here, but players must respond to the team. And if I can guide a little bit to the left of the right or whatever, then I will do. But his attitude is very good.”

Scolari maintained Drogba and Nicolas Anelka could not play together but Hiddink has no doubts the two forwards can develop a fruitful partnership.

“This debate will go on. But what for me is the most important thing, is if they are both bringing what they can tactically to the team,” he said.

“That means they have a defensive responsibility as well when we lose possession and if they do that then we can use their force, their sharpness when we have the key moments in attack.

“And if that’s the case, then I am sure they can play together.”

Michael Essien, meanwhile, could mark the end of his six-month injury nightmare by returning for the return trip to face Juventus.

The Ghana midfielder has been out since damaging knee ligaments while on international duty last September. He will take the next step in his recovery from knee surgery when he appears for the Blues reserves at Aston Villa on Monday.

If Essien comes through that test successfully he will be in the frame for the last 16 second leg clash in Turin eight days later.

While Hiddink will be anxious not to rush Essien back to soon, the return of the player for the crucial return in Italy will come as a massive boost.

Hiddink added: “He is developing very well. We have put him through some tough games in recent days, 5-a-side, 8-a-side, and he will be available shortly I think.

“We plan to play him on Monday with the reserves at Aston Villa. I hope he will be back soon.

“If you see him training with the group he is doing well, and also his presence is good to see, so I am positive about that.”