When you have a squad that is so packed with talented individuals, it seems churlish to even suggest that there are around four or five players who generally make the team tick. This article outlines the players that without them Chelsea wouldn’t be able to compete.
1. JOHN TERRY (England, Central defender)
Terry sets the benchmark with which the other players adhere to, captaining both club and country. A skilful and brave defender, what often gets lost in the plaudits given to Terry is that he is a very technically sound defender. Not afraid to lead by example and always managers to be a danger for teams set pieces, he is a fine example of a strong team leader and an outstanding choice as captain of the club and his country.
2. ASHLEY COLE (England, Left back)
He may be booed roundly by Arsenal fans every time he lines up against the Gunners, although he is still considered by many to be the best left back in the soccer world. His form and confidence has not been consistently great, his quality balls into the box after breakaways down the left side can only be matched by his nack of stopping the worlds best players in their tracks. In games against him the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been kept relatively quiet. That’s no fluke, not many other left backs could do the job.
3. MIKAEL ESSIEN (Ghana, Central midfielder)
Last seasons injury made all Chelsea fans realise how important a role Mikael Essien played,despite the team being filled with outstanding midfielders. Essien balances the team perfectly. His energy, work rate and defensive skills are first class, but he is also a technically gifted soccer player of great intelligence. With a powerful shot from a distance and the ability to go forward at the right time making him an asset to the team. The 24.4 million pounds Chelsea paid to land the midfielder from Lyon in the summer of 2005 looks to be a bargain at today’s prices.
4. FRANK LAMPARD (England, Central Midfielder)
Every team needs a midfielder like Lampard who can weigh in with plenty of goals, if they are to be successful. Lampard is one of the best around. He has shown a great return to form under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti and as a result his goal tally has been increasing dramatically. His willingness to join the attack along with his ability to link with other players in the team make him dangerous up the front.
5. DIDIER DROGBA (Ivory Coast, Attacker)
Considered by many to be the best striker in the world at the moment, and its hard to argue the point considering his current form. Didier Drogba wearing the authentic Chelsea soccer jersey makes all goalkeepers fear the upcoming game. He may be known for his ability to fall over during tackles and arguing with officials and opposing players but no goalkeeper wants him with the ball when he’s playing well. His presence, goals and power are a key element of Carlo Ancelotti’s Chelsea and at times this season, he has carried the team on his back. His form is vital for Chelsea if they are to end Manchester United’s dominance of the Premier league.
Five world class stars to make up just under half of a world class team.
