Crespo ready to take centre stage against Magpies

ARGENTINA striker Hernan Crespo will get the chance to oust Didier Drogba from the main striking spot at Chelsea when he faces Newcastle at Stamford Bridge today.

Crespo, who scored for Argentina in their 3-2 defeat by England in Geneva last week, trained with the first team squad at Cobham yesterday following his return from international duty.

The striker had missed both of Chelsea’s 1-0 defeats by Real Betis in the Champions League and Manchester United in the Barclays Premiership due to a hamstring problem.

After playing against England, Crespo sat out Argentina’s clash with Qatar to ensure he would fully fit to face the Magpies.

And now Crespo will lead the Chelsea attack instead of Ivory Coast hitman Didier Drogba who misses out through suspension after collecting five yellow cards this season.

It will give the South American the chance to prove that he is settled at Chelsea after a week of speculation suggesting he could leave the club when the January transfer window opens. Much of that was sparked by England U21 striker Carlton Cole, who is almost certain to be on the bench against Newcastle because of Drogba’s absence.

Cole hinted that Crespo was unhappy at Stamford Bridge and his comments forced the Argentinian to deny the claims.

“I will stay,” said Crespo.

“When I came back three months ago, I signed a new contract for one more year. So why do I need to change something after three months?

“I have shown that when I have an opportunity to do something in Chelsea, I am ready. But the season is long.

“If I don’t have a lot of minutes now, I don’t have a problem. Normally I need to play more but I don’t have problems with anybody.”

The 30-year-old has made only five starting appearances in the Premiership and played just 59 minutes in the Champions League.

But he will be asked to lead the attack against Newcastle as the Blues look to put their season back on track with a win.

Coach Jose Mourinho, infuriated by newspaper articles claiming the club’s billionaire owner Roman Abramovich had ordered an inquest into the team’s recent dip in form, cancelled his usual pre-match press conference yesterday.

Meanwhile, Chelsea officials are set to begin talks with Hibernian about a link-up between both clubs.

Chelsea representatives are to watch Hibs’ game against Rangers next week as well as look to confirm an agreement which will allow them access to their successful youth system.

The Edinburgh club, in return, will have access to Chelsea’s youngsters or reserve players for loan deals.