Drogba ‘outstanding actor’

Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes accused Chelsea striker Didier Drogba of being ‘an outstanding actor’ as a war of words developed between the two sides ahead of tonight’s Champions League final.

Drogba drew criticism for his antics in the first-leg of their semi-final with Barcelona and is certain to start in what may be his last game for Chelsea.

And Heynckes’ ill-judged choice of words is likely to act as a further spur to the Ivorian. Bayern later attempted to clarify their manager’s comments, claiming that he meant ‘performer’ rather than ‘actor’, but the damage had already been done.

“Drogba, for many years, has been one of the top strikers in the Premier League and is definitely dangerous,” Heynckes had said. “He can score at any moment. Sometimes he overdoes it a bit. Sometimes he is an outstanding actor on the pitch.”

Drogba certainly appeared shocked when the question was put to him.

“As far as I know, no,” he laughed when asked if he was an actor. “No, I think they have a great manager with a lot of experience. He did a lot for Bayern Munich and I have a lot respect for him. That’s all I can say. No, I don’t think so (I’m not an actor).”

But Drogba was less forthcoming on his future. After eight years, 341 appearances and 156 goals for the club his contract expires this summer.

He explained: “I don’t think about this (his future). Tomorrow’s game is so important. We’ve been waiting four years to be in this situation, to be able to be at the top of European football. My future, my contract, are not important.

“The most important thing is the team. I want to give everything to the team and the fans. From there, we’ll see what happens.”