Yuri the one for Ancelotti as Zhirkov in Roy of Rovers form

CHELSEA boss Carlo Ancelotti insists Russian Yury Zhirkov will play a crucial part in his side’s title defence after his wonder show stole the points at Blackburn.

Zhirkov was recently warned by Russia coach Dick Advocaat he risked his international place without regular first-team football but the 27-year-old is finally beginning to make his mark at Stamford Bridge.

Ancelotti relished Zhirkov’s work to provide the cross from which Branislav Ivanovic could hardly miss, heading home in a match Ancelotti admitted his side were ‘lucky’ to win.

Zhirkov moved to west London last year but saw his first-team chances restricted by a knee injury before he made an impression by scoring in the win at Spartak Moscow earlier in October.

“The goal at Spartak Moscow obviously improved his confidence. He is playing continuously now so he is showing some good football and he is working for the team.

“He was consistent last week against Wolves and he was consistent again today. Last season he showed he was ready when he replaced Ashley Cole..”