Duff ‘can challenge Robben’

EIDUR Gudjohnsen has told Arjen Robben to expect a titanic struggle with Damien Duff for Chelsea’s left-wing berth.

Robben confirmed that he is one of the game's most promising talents during Euro 2004 and his performances in Portugal highlighted exactly why Chelsea were forced to see off fierce competition from Manchester United for his signature.

The 20-year-old's penetration and pace down the left have seen him hailed as the new Ryan Giggs, but after working on his right foot he has developed into a more accomplished all-round player.

Robben's trademark, however, is his marauding runs on the flank and this will put him in direct competition with Duff, the Republic of Ireland winger and Chelsea's record signing.

Shoulder and Achilles problems ensured Duff struggled to make an impact at Stamford Bridge last season following his £17 million (€25.5 million) move from Blackburn, but if injury-free he remains a massive threat.

The rivalry between the two players providing Duff avoids new boss Jose Mourinho's summer cull should prove fascinating, according to Gudjohnsen.

"I've been very impressed by Robben. I watched him play during Euro 2004 and he looked very sharp," said the Icelander.

"He seems very quick and always gets the ball into the box. But at the same time we've already got Damien Duff on that side, so there will be big competition for the position. Unless, of course, Robben is used as a forward."

Gudjohnsen knows all about competition for places, following his battle for recognition under former manager Claudio Ranieri last season. And the new campaign promises to be little different as Portuguese boss Mourinho looks to increase his attacking options further with a reported £25 million (€37.4 million) swoop for Marseilles hitman Didier Drogba.

But Gudjohnsen refuses to complain and after four days of pre-season training admits he is enjoying life under the new regime.

"Different managers have different visions of football. I don't want to go into comparing Mr Ranieri and Mr Mourinho because it's too early but the way training is planned to such detail is something you really notice with the new manager," he said.

"Porto played very attractive football under Mr Mourinho. Their passing and movement was very good."