Drogba: Blues have the winning formula back

DIDIER DROGBA has compared this season’s Chelsea side to the title-winners of 2005 and 2006 under Jose Mourinho and suggested that after four managerial changes since the Portuguese left in September 2007, Chelsea finally have the right man in charge in Carlo Ancelotti.

The Blues striker, currently on African Cup of Nations duty with Ivory Coast, insisted the Premier League leaders would not miss him and John Obi Mikel, Salomon Kalou and Michael Essien over the next few weeks – and added that he wants to return to Chelsea next month having won the African title for his country.

“I’m glad we are in the title race,’’ said Drogba.

“It’s a very positive thing that we are rediscovering certain similarities in the way that we play today with that of the Chelsea of our first two titles (in 2005 and 2006) – in the manner of our performances, in our spirit and in our efficiency. It’s great to see, just as pleasant for the players as it is for the supporters.’’

And even though Chelsea have beaten Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool this season, Drogba is taking nothing for granted in the second half of the campaign.

“We are still a long way from winning the title and the defeat we suffered at Man City at the start of December was a big reminder of that for us,’’ he said.

“We’re taking things day by day. As far as I’m concerned, I’m doing my best to be on top form. We’re trying to win every match and that is an enormous challenge.’’

Drogba has no concerns about Chelsea in his absence. “I have faith in my team-mates and their ability to keep up our level of play. It’s not the first time that we’ve all headed off to the African Nations and in the past Chelsea have always done fine in our absence.’’

The Ivory Coast’s African Cup of Nations campaign gets underway on Monday with a group game against Burkina Faso.

On Monday, Drogba scored the only goal of the game in a 1-0 friendly win over Tanzania.

Ivory Coast are favourites to win in Angola next month, although Drogba already has half an eye on The Elephants’ World Cup adventure, where they have been drawn in a tough group alongside Brazil, Portugal and North Korea.

“For the World Cup, it’s going to be difficult, but obviously we’ll be aiming to at least get past the first stage,’’ he said in an interview published in Onze Mondiale magazine.

“For a little country like ours, getting out of that group would be an achievement. As for the African Nations, I think we can allow ourselves to dream a little more. It’s a competition we are capable of winning.

“Being one of 22 million Ivorians pulling on the shirt for our national team and representing all of my other compatriots is something that makes me extremely proud. It’s something that always gives you a lift and pushes you to do ever more. It’s such an honour.’’

Meanwhile Drogba’s Chelsea team-mate Alex believes the main threat to Chelsea’s title hopes will come from London rivals Arsenal.

Chelsea thrashed the Gunners 3-0 at Emirates Stadium just five weeks ago but Alex still believes they can win the Premier League.

“Arsenal will give us the best challenge to us this season,’’ said the defender.

“They play well, they are playing better and always have confidence in all the games.

“They are at their best this season.’’