Deco Glad Things Are Back On Track At Chelsea

Chelsea playmaker Deco did not particularly enjoy his first season in the Premier League, which rapidly soured after a bright start under the management of Luiz Felipe Scolari.

The Brazilian-born Portuguese international became the forgotten man at Stamford Bridge, as Scolari's reign ended in disappointment and Guus Hiddink took a Deco-less Blues to FA Cup glory against Everton at Wembley in May.

Last night at Sunderland though, he netted a quality goal which helped his side to a 3-1 victory at the Stadium of Light, and he is feeling optimistic that things are set to improve for him personally.

"Last season was the worst season of my career, because I never had so many injuries before, but I don't want to talk about this. This season things can be different," he told the club's official website.

"I know I am well and fit and I can play. I want to help the team and I think the coach trusts me and spoke to me and I just want to play. I started well, I train hard and play well, and I want to keep this.

"It was a good goal and that it helped us to win made it more important because we had scored a second goal and after this they started to press - but then I scored a third and I think it was finished then.

"I think we did a great game,' the Portuguese international reckoned. 'All the players enjoyed the game. Of course we started not well because they scored first even though we played well. It was a difficult game but our reaction was good.

"I have a contract and they respect me here: the fans, the people in the club and the new coach. It is a fantastic place to work and I just want to help the club.

"I had other offers but I never said that I want to go. I just said the last season was difficult and I wouldn't like this one to be like the last one - but I talked with the club and the coach and the first time he said he wanted to keep me in the squad, I said okay, I want to stay."

Much has been made of the 'diamond' formation employed by new Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti, which was tweaked last night into a 4-3-2-1 system. Deco feels happy in the new system, and is sure that the manager has the players at his disposal to make it work.

"The system is good because we have the ball all the time," he explained.
"All the time we have one player more than the other team in midfield. When you have good players it's good because you have a lot of possession. But it's difficult to defend because you don't have a winger to help but I think it is good to play.

"The players have good experience and it is easy to understand. The coach has some options to play the same system and change the players."

Chelsea Trophies Mean More Than Personal Records - Frank Lampard

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has insisted personal records are secondary to winning trophies with his club.

His comments came after he scored his 132nd goal for Chelsea in 430 appearances, meaning he is now joint-fifth on the club's all-time top scorers list, level with the legendary Jimmy Greaves.

"Personal records are nice, but not as important as silverware,” Lampard told The Daily Mail. "When you look back on your career you look at what you won as part of a team.

"I’m much more proud of winning Premier Leagues and FA Cups with Chelsea."

Lampard was proud of his personal achievement but said he was focused on continuing to score for his club.

"I’m very pleased to be up there with him, but just want to keep on scoring for Chelsea.," he concluded.

Sunderland 1-3 Chelsea

Chelsea went top of the Premier League table on Tuesday night as they came from behind once again to secure a 3-1 victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

Darren Bent put the home side ahead early, but Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard and Deco each scored in the second half to maintain the Blues' perfect start to the season.

And Carlo Ancelotti was well pleased with what he considered a dominant performance from his Pensioners.

"I am very happy. We played well throughout. Even when we fell behind, we were in total control," said the manager, according to The Daily Mail.

"Sunderland were very strong in the first half but they tired and it was more difficult for them to control our play."

It was a decidedly different-look Chelsea side to the one that rallied to edge out Hull City in the opening round, with Nicolas Anelka, John Obi Mikel and Ricardo Carvalho sitting out.

Ancelotti explained, "I changed the team because I trust my players and I wanted to rest some. I know we have quality in the other players and I want to use them and keep them all fresh."

Chelsea To Offer Roma €14m Plus Ricardo Carvalho For Philippe Mexes - Report

Despite Luciano Spalletti's declaration that Philippe Mexes would be staying put at Trigoria, the Giallorossi's management could be tempted by a bid from Carlo Ancelotti's Chelsea.

According to 4-4-2.com, Ancelotti wants Mexes to partner John Terry in central defence this season and is willing to pay €14m plus Portuguese international Ricardo Carvalho for the Frenchman.

Carvalho was linked with a move to Inter earlier this summer as Jose Mourinho looked to bring the 31-year-old to San Siro along with Deco, but the Nerazzurri were priced out of a move.

The German website also suggests that, should Carvalho be unwilling to move to Rome, the Blues could use Jose Bosingwa as a makeweight instead. However, this would leave three centre-halves competing for two places and neither Mexes nor Carvalho would be content with a place on the bench.

Another problem for Chelsea is the salary of any player they would use in exchange, as that player would be earning considerably less at Stadio Olimpico than at Stamford Bridge. One way round the problem would be for Chelsea to continue to pay a percentage of the player's salary, but Roman Abramovich has been attempting to cut costs at Chelsea this summer and is unlikely to look favourably on such a solution.

Chelsea 2-1 Hull

Didier Drogba spared Carlo Ancelotti’s blushes with a fortuitous strike deep into injury time.

The Italian’s embarrassment was evident until the Ivory Coast striker intervened to save the day and break Hull’s stubborn resistance.

Ancelotti’s full-time predecessor was sacked for failing to beat Hull at home last season.

And given the evident displeasure from a frustrated Roman Abramovich sat outside his private box, Ancelotti was anxious to avoid a run-in with his billionaire employer just one game into the campaign.

“I was very quiet and worried, that’s for sure,” said Ancelotti. “We want to believe it is good for a team to score all the time but that doesn’t always happen.

“But as a team it is important for us to believe. This game was difficult, but we showed great character to stick at it and deserved to win.

“But I accept we need to improve. We made some mistakes and we need to address those problems.”

Ancelotti was understandably full of praise for Drogba.

“He had a problem last season with his body but he has worked very hard during pre-season.

“He is very important for the team and his goals and continuing goals are good for the motivation of the team.

“I am very glad he has stayed and shown loyalty to Chelsea.

Drogba added: “I can’t deny that the winning goal was a cross. But it is always good to win the first game and our belief is strong as always.

“We showed we can fight until the end of the game and the desire was there.”

Hull boss Phil Brown tried to take the positives out of a heartbreaking defeat.

“I’m bitterly disappointed but pleased with the players performance and the way they applied themselves.

“The first goal was a soft free-kick and we had a point until Didier Drogba’s cross ended up in the back of our net in the 92nd minute.

“We always knew Chelsea had the quality to beat us but, to be honest, we coped well given the possession they had.

“I think we have surprised a few people with this, but we also know that we need to apply ourselves consistently throughout the campaign and take points when they become available.

“I’m not surprised people doubt us after the way we escaped last season. We know we will have to prove people wrong again.”

Chelsea were making relatively hard work of breaking down a Hull side that had taken just three points from their previous 30 and were without a win in 11 games.

Drogba missed two sitters inside the opening five minutes and John Terry headed over the bar from Frank Lampard’s corner.

Then Petr Cech was called into action in quick succession to prevent Hull taking a shock lead – before Stamford Bridge fell silent in the 28th minute.

It was bad enough Hull had taken a shock lead but was compounded by the fact that Stephen Hunt applied the finishing touch. Hunt had famously hospitalised Cech during a clash at Reading in August 2007 and he was booed with every touch.

The ill-feeling towards him seem to subside once Drogba made amends for his earlier misses by curling the ball past Boaz Myhill from a 25-yard free-kick.

After the break, Nicolas Anelka, Frank Lampard, Florent Malouda and Drogba all threatened to give Chelsea the lead as wave upon wave of attack bore down.

Hull had half chances through Folan and Boateng but it was clear they were set for a draw.

Then, deep into time added on, Drogba came to Chelsea’s rescue, as his cross sailed over the stranded Myhill from an acute angle to break Hull hearts.

Chelsea Boss Carlo Ancelotti Wants Serie A To Recreate Premier League Atmosphere

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti's introduction to managerial life in England has thus far been a success in terms of a Community Shield coup and an opening day league win against Hull City, but it is the atmosphere generated by matchday fans that has left an impression on the Italian tactician.

"British stadiums have a beautiful atmosphere and my desire is to see this atmosphere also in Italy," Ancelotti is reported to have told the press following the Blues' 2-1 victory over the Tigers.

Didier Drogba scored twice as the Pensioners collected maximum points at the weekend, but the former Milan boss noted that the game proved laborious for his side due to the defensive resilience of Hull.

"We showed quality, even if it was a very difficult game against a team that has defended well and played just long balls," he said.

Ancelotti also commented on how welcoming the Stamford Bridge masses were to his arrival in domestic football in England, noting, "It was very exciting because I received a beautiful round of applause."

Carlo Ancelotti Relaxed Ahead Of Chelsea's Trip To Sunderland

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that he has no major concerns as his squad prepare for their game against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Tuesday night, and that training has gone well after Saturday's opening day victory over Hull City at Stamford Bridge.

"Yesterday we recovered all the players and now today [Monday] we did a little tactical work," the Italian told the Blues' official website.
"It is no problem to recover the players at the start of the season. There is no problem to prepare a game for tomorrow because Sunderland played the same time as us, Saturday. We have the same problem.

"Ray [Wilkins, assistant manager] said to me that Sunderland is a very particular place. He said there is a lot of passion around this team and we have to know it will be a difficult game.

"We have to stay ready, to continue to win. This is only the second game in the league but we want to maintain the good atmosphere in the team.
"The journey is no problem with a plane. We want to play with the same system, with the same mentality. We want to attack, we want to win. We can try to do this."

As for the club's injured players, Ancelotti revealed that there may be some hope that Alex (groin), Yuri Zhirkov (knee) and Juliano Belletti (Achilles) may play some part in the first team soon.

"We hope to recover them for the next match at home," Ancelotti confirmed.

Joe Cole and Paulo Ferreira remain long-term absentees with knee injuries.

Chelsea Coach Carlo Ancelotti Aims For Milan's Clarence Seedorf - Report

Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti is ready to show his hand for Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf.

According to Il Giornale, Ancelotti is ready to return to his former club and ask for the 33-year-old midfielder. The ex-Milanista tried, but failed to land Andrea Pirlo, and he is now turning his attention to the Dutchman.

Seedorf was popular under Ancelotti during their seven years together at San Siro, and he was a key component in the team before the coach joined Chelsea during the summer.

However, despite the reports, it is suggested the Rossoneri have no intention of selling him. Seedorf is seen as back up to Ronaldinho. Voices claim there are still doubts over the Brazilian's potential this season, and it is unlikely that Seedorf will be put on the market.

Seedorf joined Milan from Inter in 2002 from Inter and has won the Scudetto, a Coppa Italia, two Champions Leagues and a FIFA Club World Cup.

Whoever Finishes Above Chelsea Will Be Champions - Sunderland Boss Steve Bruce

Chelsea travel to Sunderland on Tuesday night for a challenging-looking Premier League clash, and Mackems' boss Steve Bruce thinks that his men are in for a tough test.

Bruce feels that the Blues are definite contenders for the title this season, with anyone good enough to actually finish above them this season likely to end up winning the Premier League.

"If anyone finishes above Chelsea they will win the league, in my opinion. They have some great players, the squad have been together a long time and they're geared towards winning things," he told the Black Cats' official website.
"Carlo Ancelotti's won the European Cup and Serie A and he'll want more. We know what to expect - a very tough game.

"Not many teams beat Chelsea. To be fair, we have to be at our best and we'll have a game plan to play against them.

"We'll have to do something tactically against them because if we take them on head to head they'll enjoy that with what they've got in their locker.
"We will have to do our jobs properly and hope we can produce a performance, particularly in the first 45 minutes. If we can do that, we've got a chance."

The Sunderland gaffer was aware that the fixture computer could have handed him a better home debut, but he was relishing the challenge, especially after an encouraging opening day 1-0 win at Bolton Wanderers, and was hoping that the passionate Mackem support would play their part.

"I couldn't have wished for a more difficult first home game but we're looking forward to it," he added.
"The fans are important, of course. It's my first time in front of them, and after the reception on Saturday I want us to put on a performance for the home fans which shows them what we're trying to achieve."

Despite the challenging nature of the game, Bruce does feel that his team pose a true threat in attack, with the combination of Darren Bent and Kenwyne Jones possessing an intimidating mixture of pace, power and skill.

"I don't think they were ever that big when I played - they seem to get bigger now," he told The Daily Mail.
"They didn't breed them like that when I was playing, thankfully. Potentially, they have got the makings of a very, very good pair. When they are at it, the pair of them, I wouldn't like to play against them. They are a handful for anybody, that's for sure, so I hope that continues.'

"Kenwyne looked to me as if he was enjoying himself and enjoying playing with Darren, maybe a new partner who suits him a little bit. But it's not just Kenwyne, I want all of them to come and play as if they are enjoying it."

Werder Bremen Continue Talks With Chelsea Over Claudio Pizarro

Chelsea over the future of Claudio Pizarro and the German outfit's sporting director Klaus Allofs feels confident that the Peruvian striker can be brought back to the club.

Pizarro spent the entirety of last term with the Bundesliga side, enjoying a successful season before returning to Stamford Bridge.

The 30-year-old himself has admitted that he wishes to fight for a place in Carlo Ancelotti's starting XI, but Allofs remains hopeful that Pizarro will return to Germany.

"We are deep in talks with them [Chelsea] and we hope to be successful before August 31," Allofs told DSF television.

"And just to bring an end to all the rumours, if we do sign him then we would be buying him and I think that is also what Chelsea want."

Chelsea's Nicolas Anelka: Drogba & I Can Be 'Most Feared' Strikers In Europe

Chelsea star Nicolas Anelka believes that he and Didier Drogba are well on their way to forming what will come to be known as the "most feared" striking partnership in Europe.

"I really mean what I say. If we consistently play together, we can become the most feared strike partnership in Europe - and that includes the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona," he said in The Sun.

When Anelka arrived at Stamford Bridge from Bolton Wanderers in January 2008, questions were raised as to whether he and Drogba could coexist in the Blues' starting XI.

But the Frenchman is sure that any doubts over his compatibility with the big Ivorian will be extinguished for good as Carlo Ancelotti's men push for Premier League honours this season.

"Yes, we had our critics who said we couldn't play well together - but we have shown them just how rubbish their words were," he said.

"I'd love to win the Golden Boot again, but if it is Didier who wins it, then I really won't mind.

"All that matters is that the title comes back to Chelsea. The boss has us playing as a team at the moment and nobody is out for personal glory."

And while Anelka conceded that there was an abundance of top-quality attacking talent in England and abroad, he insisted that there was nobody he'd rather turn to in a do-or-die situation than Drogba.

"There are some great strikers in world football at the moment, like Fernando Torres and David Villa. But when you really need a goal, there is no better man to look to than Didier," he said.

"He never gives up and his attitude for the team is fantastic. For me, he is the most complete striker in the world."

Manchester City set to beat Chelsea to signature of 'new Robinho'

Moneybags Manchester City are beating Chelsea to the signature of Brazilian teenager Rafael de Silva Rodolfo - the 'new Robinho.

The 16-year-old attacker, whose football name is Pernao has attracted huge interest and flew in for talks with both City and their London rivals.

Pernao is rated at £3 million despite the fact that he has not featured in the Fluminese first-team yet and is considered the next jewel from South America.

City moved quickly to invite the youngster to Manchester last week and expect to complete the deak shortly, which will include further add-ons, following discussions with his club and family.

Pernao was able to meet and train with his idol Robinho and wants to follow the same route to Manchester as his friends, the Da Silva twins who have already made the first team at rivals United.

Chelsea thought they were at the front of the queue for the player but City are currently spending millions establishing academies across the globe and have very firm plans to recruit the hottest young talent around.

Chelsea Will Not Renew Nicolas Anelka's Contract Until Next Year - Report

British newspaper The Guardian has reported that Chelsea will not enter contract negotiations with Nicolas Anelka until the end of the season at the earliest - despite claims from the player's agent that talks were imminent.

It appears that Anelka's representative, Doug Pingisi, had jumped the gun slightly regarding his client's future, as Chelsea seem perfectly happy to wait until the last year of the Frenchman's current deal before opening negotiations again.

Holding out until their players' final years seems to be the norm at Stamford Bridge, with the club having extended the contracts of Mikel John Obi, Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard all on their remaining 12 months with the Blues.

Anelka looks set to pair strike partner Drogba on Tuesday night when Chelsea face Sunderland in their second Premier League tie of the season.

Carlo Ancelotti Pleased With Chelsea's 'Difficult' Win Over Manchester United

Chelsea triumphed on penalties over Manchester United after a 2-2 draw in today's Community Shield season opener at Wembley, and Blues boss Carlo Ancelotti seemed satisfied that his team had shown the character to cope with a difficult test from Manchester United.

"We are happy because we won a very difficult match," he told Sky Sports News.

"Manchester [United] played better than Chelsea in the first half. They went up by one goal and for us it was a very difficult first half. Second half was better for Chelsea, because we put more strength into the game, we put in more quality.

"We draw, and then we won with a decisive score from Lampard," concluded the smiling Chelsea coach.

The Blues had a disastrous start to the game, conceding from a Nani effort inside the first ten minutes, before Ricardo Carvalho and Frank Lampard put them into the lead. A Wayne Rooney stoppage time equaliser sent the game to a penalty shoot-out, which Chelsea won 4-1.

Community Shield Win Is A Sweet Moment For Chelsea – Frank Lampard

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard admitted winning the Community Shield against Manchester United was a “sweet moment” for the Blues.

An entertaining game at Wembley ended 2-2 with Wayne Rooney scoring a last minute equaliser for the champions.

However, the Blues bounced back to win from the penalty spot and claim the first silverware of the season.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Lampard, who scored Chelsea’s second goal admitted it was a good way to start the season.

“It’s a nice start to the season especially after that last minute goal we could have been on a bit of a downer but we kept our heads,” said the England international.

Lampard’s goal had an element of controversy to it after Chelsea played on despite a foul by Michael Ballack on Patrice Evra.

However, the midfielder insisted the west Londoners had done nothing wrong.

“No I think everyone knows the rules now it’s up to the referee to stop it,” he explained.

“The rules are as a player whenever the referee stops it, he stops it so that’s what we did. I’m sure Manchester United would have done the same.”

Lampard also admitted he was happy with the diamond formation Chelsea had played and his own position within the team.

“I’m very happy, I don’t mind honestly where I play in midfield in a diamond,” he added.

“The holding role is not particularly my role but left right or at the top of it I’m happy.

"I enjoyed it today, I won’t play it as a typical no 10. I try and give a bit more to the team defensively but at the same time try to add as much as I can going forward.”

Chelsea 2-2 Manchester United (Chelsea Win 4-1 On Pens): The Blues Seal Penalty Shoot-Out Victory

Chelsea were triumphant in today's Community Shield encounter on penalty kicks after their clash with Manchester United ended 2-2 after normal time.

Nani had given United the lead before goals from Ricardo Carvalho and Frank Lampard had seemingly clinched victory for the Blues, but a Wayne Rooney goal in injury time sent the match to spot kicks.

Carlo Ancelotti and his men were not to be denied, however, and they sealed a straightforward win on penalties after Ryan Giggs and Patrice Evra both missed from twelve yards.

First Half

In what was an open and free-flowing encounter, both sides had a number of opportunities, with the Red Devils just edging the first-half in terms of possession and clear cut attempts on goal.

Chelsea, however should have taken the lead inside the first five minutes. Frank Lampard whipped in a tremendous delivery, finding Didier Drogba unmarked, but the Ivorian’s flick header found the crossbar via the head of Patrice Evra on the goal line.

The English champions then moved into the ascendency, and took the lead on ten minutes thanks to their mercurial Portuguese winger Nani.

The heir apparent to Cristiano Ronaldo on the United wing seized his chance, drifting inside from the right hand side to unleash a powerful shot that flew into Peter Cech’s net. The Czech stopper will undoubtedly feel he should have done better, with the ball flapping through his fingers, but it took nothing away from the vicious nature of the strike.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s men looked to press home their advantage, and not long after Dimitar Berbatov broke clear on the right hand side. His floated cross was knocked back across goal by Wayne Rooney, and Park Ji Sung managed to get some kind of connection on his volley that Cech on this occasion did well to palm away.

Berbatov once again broke clear after a neat one-two with Park that left him in on goal and Jon Obi Mikel trailing in his wake, but Cech stayed big to block his effort and keep his side just one goal behind.

As the match edged towards half-time, the Londoners began to enjoy more sustained levels of possession without really showing any hint of penetration. Nicolas Anelka did well to shift and shoot low inside the area, but his shot drifted wide, and so ended the first half.

Second Half

Coach Carlo Ancelotti had set his Chelsea side up in a 4-4-2 diamond formation that his players looked uncomfortable employing in the opening period, but the second half belonged to the Italian and his players, and the equaliser arrived on 54 minutes.

Malouda played a teasing chip across goal and as Drogba jumped with the somewhat nervous Ben Foster, the ball broke to Ricardo Carvalho who accepted the gift to nod into the empty goal. 1-1, and probably a fair reflection of the game as a whole up until that point.

After the equaliser the contest became rather disjointed, but in the end it was Chelsea who moved into the lead, and the goal was a contentious one.

Patrice Evra was clearly blocked off on the left touchline by Michael Ballack, but with Wayne Rooney with the ball at his feet, referee Chris Foy waved play on. Evra remained flat out as Chelsea regained the ball and ignored pleas to knock out of play to allow the Frenchman to receive treatment. Drogba crossed to Frank Lampard, who drilled the ball into the net via the hand of Foster and the post. The Manchester United players protested, but to no avail – the goal stood and Chelsea had the advantage.

The Red Devils’ response was to make a quadruple substitution, with Giggs, Scholes, Owen and young Fabio entering the fray, but Chelsea appeared more likely to extend their lead. The ever-dangerous Drogba powered a low shot from the edge of the area that Foster instinctively smothered with his right hand.

The match looked to petering out to a Chelsea win, with United largely ineffectual in the closing moments as they laboured in their attempts to draw level.

But, as so often has been proven in the past, it is foolish to write off Manchester United, and in injury time they clinched a superb equaliser thanks to Wayne Rooney.

The imperious Ryan Giggs slipped through a beautiful pass into the path of the 23-year old, who drove in on goal and dinked the ball precisely over the despairing Cech.

No extra time is played in the Community Shield, and so we were straight to penalties. United entered the shoot-out with a mixed record, having lost to Everton in the FA Cup semi-final but defeating Spurs in the Carling Cup final, while Chelsea's agonising loss in the 2008 Champions League final was still fresh in the mind.

It was Chelsea who were to clinch the victory in the showpiece thanks to efficient penalty taking coupled with two dreadful efforts from Giggs and Evra, winning 4-1 and striking the first blow prior to the Premier League campaign commencing next weekend.

Chelsea Launch Mega 'Buy & Loan' Move For Milan Star Pato - Report

According to the News of the World, Chelsea are ready to pay Milan a sum of €52.5 million for the services of Alexandre Pato.

The Blues have long been linked with the Brazilian teenager, especially since Carlo Ancelotti, the former Rossoneri boss, took over at Stamford Bridge earlier this summer.

The Italian giants have thus far resisted all approaches for their up-and-coming striker, but Chelsea believe they have come up with a deal that will please all parties.

It is claimed that the Londoners are willing to buy Pato outright for the aforementioned €52.5m and then loan him back to Milan immediately for the 2009-10 season.

The Serie A side are worried about cashing in on another star so soon after selling their talismanic playmaker, Kaka, to Real Madrid, but the Pensioners' new proposal would calm some of those fears.

A NOTW source said, "The boy would come to Chelsea right now but Milan have just sold Kaka and do not want to lose another top star.

"That's why this deal could make all the difference. Milan get their money up front and keep his services for one more season and have plenty of time to scout a replacement.

"Chelsea are hoping it is the perfect deal both for them and for Milan."

Both clubs are yet to comment on these latest reports.

Carlo Ancelotti Sees Advantage For Chelsea Ahead Of New Season

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti believes his squad have an edge going into the new season; an edge sharpened by the fact that, with no major departures over the summer, their sense of unity has intensified.

Of the Premier League's 'big four', only Chelsea did not lose a top star this summer, having successfully repelled Manchester City's attempts to lure captain John Terry north.

Ancelotti was quoted as saying in the Daily Mail, "We do have an advantage because we are the same group of players and they all have good relationships. It can be an advantage for us.

"We bought Yuri Zhirkov and Daniel Sturridge. Zhirkov is a top international player and Sturridge is a good young player. We got Ross Turnbull as well because we needed a goalkeeper.

"But it was more important we did not lose a player this summer than it was to buy players. We stay well with these players.

"I don't want to take other players because I think the squad is very competitive at Chelsea. We don't need other new faces."

In contrast to Chelsea, Manchester United lost Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez, while Arsenal lost Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure, and Liverpool saw Xabi Alonso head to Real Madrid.

Regarding this weekend's Community Shield clash with United, Ancelotti said, "We have taken very good information from our pre-season. We did very good pre-season because we don't have injuries. We worked well, with a good mental attitude.

"United will be a difficult game but we arrive happy and excited to be at a beautiful stadium such as Wembley."

And he even added, "I like the weather in England as well because I don't like the sun. Every day rain, rain, rain. Rain makes good pitches. This is a good temperature to work in."

Drogba Set For Two-Year Contract Extension At Chelsea

Chelsea forward Didier Drogba is expected to sign a new deal on Wednesday that will extend his current contract by two years, according to a report from Sky Sports.

The African had been linked with a reunion with Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan, as they share a special relationship, but now it seems he will remain at Chelsea.

Drogba, for his part, had always maintained he was committed to Chelsea and was determined to at least see his deal out, which was due to end in 2010.

“I like Chelsea. I have spent good times here and I am part of this great club," he said.

“There have been some difficult times, but it is great to play for a team with quality players.”

The Ivorian international had fallen out of favour with Luis Felipe Scolari last season, but rekindled his devastating form under Guus Hiddink towards the latter part of the season, and will be hoping to continue that momentum during the tenure of new manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Chelsea's Carlo Ancelotti Promises Highly Creative Midfield Triangle

Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti has asserted that his re-shaping of the Blues' first-team formation into a 4-4-2, with a 'diamond' in midfield, will allow several of the club's attacking midfielders to line up alongside each other.

"Chelsea can play [Frank] Lampard, Deco and also we can play Joe Cole, he has the quality to play behind the striker and maybe also [Salomon] Kalou," Ancelotti told the club's official website.

"Lampard can play on the left and he can play offensive midfielder. I want to try this, because I like games where he is in this position.

"The other players can play in the diamond in a different role, they can play up front or they can play behind the striker, so I want to play with the diamond."

Dealing with such tactical problems is something the Italian clearly enjoys, and he feels that his patience is the personal quality that allows him to find the solutions he needs.

"My patience is my biggest strength, although I also love football and I think this is the biggest point," he added.
"I love the tactics, the play and I love finding solutions and trying new solutions.

"But the most important thing is to have a team who play with a clear idea of how they need to play. So we prepare the training with this objective.

"I want to be myself with my players, I have my character and I want to keep this character around my players. I want to be true.

"If I have an idea of how to play, I put this idea to the players and they go out on the pitch and play the way I want. That is not easy to do and this is why I need a good relationship them.

"All this will help us win a trophy this season, which is very possible. I don't like to say I will win, but I have a good feeling. It is better to think about winning than to think about losing."

The Champions League winner was also unequivocal in what his targets are with his new club in the coming campaign.

"The most important thing to win is the Premier League and the Champions League," he confirmed.
"To win these would be a success, but we also need to have an identity with the team and I think we are going the right way about doing this. In the last games, I saw some very good ideas coming from the players."

'Nothing Official' Regarding Milan Star Andrea Pirlo - Chelsea

Reports emerged earlier on Friday that Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo had said his goodbyes to his team-mates, as he could be on the verge of joining former coach Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea.

The news has not been confirmed by either club, so Italian news agency ilsussidiario.net contacted the head of the Chelsea press office, Steve Atkins, who claimed that no move has been made for the 2006 World Cup winner.

"There is nothing official here. This news is not on everyone's lips," was his response.

It remains to be seen if a move for the Italian international playmaker will materialise or not. The press in both Italy and England continue to suggest the teams are in negotiations.

The Premier League giants supposedly saw a €14.5 million bid, which also included the services of Claudio Pizarro and the loan of Michael Mancienne, rejected earlier this week.

Pirlo has been with the Rossoneri since 2001, making over 320 appearances for the club in all competitions.

Nicolas Anelka Enjoying Chelsea's New Formation

Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka is looking forward to playing more games as an out-and-out centre-forward rather than out wide, with new manager Carlo Ancelotti favouring a 4-4-2 formation featuring a diamond-shaped midfield.

Last season, Anelka often found himself shunted out wide in order to allow Didier Drogba into the side, as the Blues continued to favour a 4-3-3 line-up, but he is now acclimatising himself to the new formation and his partnership with his Ivorian strike partner.

"I like the new system, and we just have to learn again to play in this new way. Last season I was on my own up front, then on the left and the right, so now I am central with Didier and I think it is going to work well," he told the club's official website.
"After some games I will start to learn a little more this position because we can swap together and I think it will be like when I was on the right, it will take time to get used to but after that it will be okay."

Chelsea face Championship side Reading tomorrow in their final pre-season game before the August 9 date in the Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley, having returned from their tour of the United States.

"It was a good trip to America but now we have to move on, we are back in England and London and we are a little more concentrated because the season is coming soon," he added.

"We have to be ready, we have one more game and then in a week it is Manchester United.

"It is still a little bit difficult, it will take a few days but we are back in training and it is good. It was a successful tour for us, we won all of our games and played well against some big teams, so things are looking good."

John Terry: Roman Abramovich Talks Tactics With Chelsea Players

Chelsea defender John Terry has revealed how club owner Roman Abramovich involves himself in football affairs at Stamford Bridge.

Terry has committed his future to the Blues this week, reportedly thanks in no small part to a meeting with Abramovich.

The England international captain says the Russian has the final say on matters at the club but that he is always looking for feedback from his players.

"Mr. Abramovich is a very successful businessman and makes all the final decisions," Terry said, according to Sky Sports News.

"He likes to have the opinion of the players.

"We are the ones living and breathing the football life and he can make a really small improvement for us on or off the pitch if he tries to do it.

"And he wants to know the feedback from the lads - what is working and what's not.

"It's great because he understands football. He watches so many games and understands the game very well and he has put an awful lot in.

"He wants to know why and how we can improve, all the time. I think it's great we can have that relationship with him."

Franco di Santo Delighted With Chelsea Pre-Season

Chelsea striker Franco di Santo was over the moon after his goal helped the Blues topple Club America in the World Football Challenge.

"I feel happy because it is my first goal in the pre-season, and I am happy because I needed to score to improve myself," the 20-year-old told the club’s official website.

"This was good for me, because I have a lot of competition with the other strikers - but I have scored today and I am happy. It is important but the more important here is that Chelsea win and it is the first trophy from pre-season."

The Argentine U-20 international performed admirably with a strong run that ended in Florent Malouda scoring the second goal for the Pensioners.

"Making goals is as important as scoring because the most important is that the team wins," he added.

Chelsea won the World Football Challenge after emerging victorious in every game in the pre-season competition.

Fabio Capello Is Happy With My Decision To Stay At Chelsea - John Terry

John Terry has come out saying that his decision to stay at Chelsea was made due to the lure of Champions League football. He believes that England boss Fabio Capello will be happy to see him play at the highest level before the World Cup.

"To be in the Champions League is massive," Terry has been quoted in The Mirror as saying. "You never know what Mr. Capello's response would have been had I not been playing Champions League football.

"I'm delighted and I'm sure he's happy. We're looking really good with England - it could be a good year for us.

"I'm just hoping the season starts really well with the national team, and that no one picks up any injuries with England this season, particularly in the late part of the season. It could be really good."

Never a man to shy away from showering praise on his boss, the captain spoke of the influence Carlo Ancelotti has had on the team, saying, “Carlo has been fantastic.

“I know it is only early days but he has been really good - he knows the modern game very well.”

Chelsea recently triumphed in the World Football Challenge after winning all their games in the USA-based pre-season competition.

Atmosphere In Chelsea Team Is Good - Carlo Ancelotti

After an undefeated run so far in the preparations for the start of the new season, combined with a 2-1 victory over his former club Milan in the World Football Challenge, Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his contentment following the players’ performances.

“For Chelsea it was a difficult game because Milan played well and moved well on the pitch. Chelsea [had a difficult time in] midfield because we didn't find a right position but the team worked hard on the pitch and we are happy for the victory,” Ancelotti told the club’s official website.

However, the former Rossoneri coach did not intend to sit back and relax, as he believed that there is still room for improvement. He stressed on the atmosphere of the team, which had been lacking during the reign of Luiz Felipe Scolari.

He said, “We have to improve, we have to work, the victory is important because the atmosphere is good in the team and for this we are happy.

“Thanks to all the fans of the USA because there was a beautiful atmosphere at the stadium and I think that the teams played a good match, a good show.”

The Blues boss also praised Yuri Zhirkov, who played in an unfamiliar role as he was tucked into the left-midfield area. The Russian scored the winner during the game between Ancelotti’s past and present clubs.

“Zhirkov is not a surprise, he is a new player for sure and he found it difficult on the pitch for his position,” the coach ascertained.

“This is normal, he has to work with the team and it is important for him to score a goal. We think he is a very good player.”

The Pensioners’ boss concluded by stressing on the atmosphere of the team, and said that Chelsea are enjoying their time on North American soil.

Zhirkov's Debut Goal Sees Chelsea Past Milan

Chelsea 2-1 AC Milan

Yuri Zhirkov scored the winner on his debut, as Chelsea ran out 2-1 winners over Milan.

The last time these two sides met was in a friendly last summer, when a horror show from Zeljko Kalac contributed to a 5-0 romp from Chelsea. The Australian keeper was back between the sticks this time, and he was in action soon, saving a pile-driver from range from Frank Lampard.

It was all Chelsea in the early stages, and it was no surprise when the goal came after just six minutes, and it was worth the price of entry. Picking the ball up more than 30 yards out, Didier Drogba unleashed an unstoppable shot that went flying into the top right hand corner, leaving Kalac with no chance.

Milan began to earn a bit more possession after conceding, but they were struggling to create any genuine chances. They did come close on 18 minutes, when Andrea Pirlo's shot from range was well saved by Petr Cech's outstretched left foot, while Ronaldinho's overhead kick from the rebound bounced out off Marco Borriello.

Chelsea were content to sit back and counter, and they were getting plenty of encouragement from Kalac's antics in goal. Having nearly made a complete mess of an attempt to tackle Nicolas Anelka, once in the box and once way outside of it, he then managed to fumble a seemingly routine cross, but luckily escaped unpunished on all three occasions.

Just before the half-hour, Milan had their best chance of the match, when a 1-2 between Clarence Seedorf and Alexandre Pato resulted in a sublime chip from the Dutchman, which was cleared off the line by John Terry.

After a frantic start, the game had slowed down somewhat, but on 35 minutes, a scything challenge from Mathieu Flamini on Jon Obi Mikel earned him a yellow card, a rare occurrence for a friendly.

On 37 minutes, just when the match was looking for some inspiration after a brief lull, it was provided by Seedorf. Ronaldinho laid the ball up for him just outside the box, and he unleashed an strike to match Drogba's earlier effort, as Cech helplessly watched the ball sail into the top-right hand corner.

Chelsea almost fought back instantly, when Drogba's ball across the six-yard box found Yuri Zhirkov, who was denied by Kalac's trailing leg.

That was the last chance of an exciting first half in which Milan dominated possession, while Chelsea created the best chances, and both sides deserved to be level thanks to two spectacular strikes.

Unusually for a friendly, neither team made a change at half-time. Chelsea were inches away from reclaiming the lead almost immediately, when Anelka slid his shot just past the far post after being put through by Drogba.

Seconds later, Seedorf nearly produced an early contender for goal of the season. Playing the ball into Ronaldinho, the Brazilian produced a phenomenal first time back-heel back into Seedorf's path. but the Dutchman's lob flew just wide.

It was certainly an intense start to the second period, and Kalac was being kept busy again as Lampard tested him out with another long range effort. Branislav Ivanovic then got booked for a challenge that might have seen him off in a competitive encounter, and Ronaldinho's free-kick flew wide.

On the hour mark, Carlo Ancelotti made his first substitution, replacing Anelka with AndriyShevchenko. Meanwhile, Seedorf, who had just picked up a knock to the knee, was replaced by Ignazio Abate. The changes were now starting to increase, with Oguchi Onyewu and Gianmarco Zigoni replacing Nesta and Borrielo respectively.

With twenty minutes remaining, Chelsea took the lead once more. Shevchenko cut in from the left and saw his shot saved, while Lampard's rebound was also blocked. However, the ball came out to Zhirkov, who fired a low strike in at the near post.

The Rossoneri continued to make their changes, with Gennaro Gattuso now replacing Pirlo. Marek Jankulovski then took Zambrotta's place, while Drogba was withdrawn for Claudio Pizarro.

Milan now almost had a new XI by this stage, with Davide Di Gennaro replacing Ronaldinho, and Filippo Inzaghi taking Pato's place.

With ten minutes remaining, Milan did not look likely to equalize, as the new introductions tried to settle into the game. Inzaghi did attempt an ambitious bicycle kick, but he failed to connect properly and the ball simply floated out of play.

On 85 minutes, Zhirkov's succesful debut came to an end, as he was replaced by Michael Mancienne. Just before full time, Jose Bosingwa was withdrawn for Sam Hutchinson.

Just when it seemed as though the game was petering out to its inevitable conclusion, Inzaghi got a trademark header in from the six yard box, which was spectacularly tipped over by Cech. Onyewu then headed wide from a late cross, as Chelsea hung on to claim the victory.

Deco Vows To Perform For Chelsea

After a torrid season with the Premier League big-boys, Deco claims that he is looking to turn things around in his second season with Chelsea.

And despite a prolonged flirt with a move to Inter, the Portugal international looks determined to perform under new boss Carlo Ancelotti.

"I'll be here because I have a contract. I just want to play. I will do my best wherever I am on the pitch," The Times quotes the 31-year-old as saying.

"The last season was difficult for me, I had many injuries and only played a few games.

"I’m happy to play. Every player needs to play and wants to play. I hope this season I don’t have the injuries and can play the way I know."

The Stamford Bridge outfit suffered as a whole due to a host of internal problems that saw Luiz Felipe Scolari sacked, with Guus Hiddink seeing out the season for the Blues.

Deco feels that a combination of the administrative problems within the camp coupled with his catalogue of injuries contributed to his poor performances last term.

"It wasn’t just the injuries, but when you have four injuries in the same year it is difficult," he went on.

"You recover and get fit again and, straight after, another injury. It’s so difficult. I don’t like to make excuses, but I hope to work hard and start this season playing well.

"All I want to do is to play and do my best for Chelsea."

Hollywood Star Will Ferrell Acts As Honorary Chelsea Captain

Will Farrell's love for Chelsea has been apparent since he started appearing on The Daily Show on American television sporting one of the Blues' replica shirts, and the actor was on hand at the Rose Bowl, Pasadena, on Tuesday night to act as 'captain' for the side ahead of the friendly win over Inter.

Ferrell was sporting the shirt he wears on The Daily Show, and revealed that his love for the west Londoners runs deep.
"This is the same one as The Daily Show, it's vintage now but I have a new one already," he told the club's official website.

"Chelsea have just reached out to me a couple of times and, I can't say that I only follow Chelsea, I try to keep an eye on all the teams in the Premiership and I love soccer in general.

"I'm a big sports fan as a whole, and was a sports journalist, a very, very good sports journalist."

The 42-year-old star of Anchorman and Step Brothers also revealed that his favourite player is the club's talismanic England international midfielder Frank Lampard.

"I love Frank Lampard, he's one of the toughest guys of all time," he enthused.

"I went to a match against Barcelona two or three years ago and the atmosphere was just fantastic, there is nothing like that here, so it was really fun to watch."

Nicolas Anelka Admits He Is Feeling At Home With Chelsea

Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka, who has led a journeyman playing career having worn the colours of nine different clubs in the past 14 seasons, is finally feeling at home.

The striker, who was shunted out wide while partnering Didier Drogba in a three-pronged attack last season under Guus Hiddink, is quoted by This Is London as saying, "I am happy at Chelsea. I am very pleased about everything that is going on and also with things on the outside. I don't need to move.

"My last season here was pleasing. It's always good to score goals and more so to finish top scorer. So I'm glad to be here, to play for a big club like Chelsea and that I had a good season."

Tactical changes and formation alterations have already been mooted by new boss Carlo Ancelotti, who is believed to favour fielding two strikers. Anelka is looking forward to playing alongside Drogba, as opposed to slightly behind him.

He explained to London's Evening Standard, "When I first signed I thought I would play with Didier up front, but they only wanted to play one of us up front. It was a shame because we knew we could play together.

"When we play together, I look for him straight away when I have the ball. I want him to score and the same goes for him. When he has the ball he looks for me when I'm up front."

Last season's Golden Boot winner believes the club are capable of landing the Premier League and Champions League double next season.

"We are capable of winning both titles," he proclaimed. "Last season we couldn't do it but we will try to do it next season.

"Last year we conceded too many draws and lost games at home, this cost us the title."

Carlo Ancelotti '100 Per Cent' Sure Of Chelsea Stay For John Terry

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti is certain John Terry will remain at the club this summer, despite persistent question marks surrounding the player's future.

Terry has been linked continuously with Manchester City over recent weeks, forcing officials at Stamford Bridge to insist that the defender is going nowhere.

The England international's silence on the matter has done the club no favours in knocking back City's advances, but Ancelotti still believes Terry will be a Chelsea player at the start of the season.

"I am sure he will remain at Chelsea. I am sure, 100 per cent." he said at a press conference in the United States ahead of Chelsea's meeting with the Seattle Sounders.

"He has a contract for three years more."

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Petr Cech outlined Terry's commitment to the club, explaining that he can see the stopper is very much committed to the cause.

He said, "He's the same captain he was three months ago, five months ago, one year ago, five years ago, so I don't see any difference.

"I don't have to ask him [about his future] because I can see with my eyes that he is committed."

I Had Two Bad Games, But I Was Still Consistent – Peter Cech

Peter Cech admits Chelsea had no chance of winning the Premier League title last season after his mid-season blip, in which he conceded seven goals in consecutive games against Bolton and Liverpool.

Cech reflected on what he describes as his ‘worst period’ at Chelsea and how Guus Hiddink’s arrival ensured Chelsea regained their fighting spirit.

"I had two bad games but it shouldn't take away from my consistent form during the season. After five years at the club, it was the most criticism I've had,” Cech told Chelsea Magazine.

"We threw away the title because of our form in December and January but after that we did brilliantly.

"In Mr Hiddink's time here we had a superb record and played very well. We never actually lost in the Champions League knock out stages so our exit was really tough to take.

"The final months were very interesting, exciting even. When you are at a club like Chelsea any loss is disappointing because we are one of the best teams in Europe."

Cech insists he is experienced enough to ‘stay calm’ and maintains he is working on things he could possibly do a ‘little better’.

He said: "I always look to improve and I analyse the bad games exactly the same as the good. You can pre-plan as much as you want but the game is based on instincts a lot of the time so it's not always possible."

He added: “One hundred and eighty minutes doesn't make me a bad goalkeeper and doesn't take away from the thousands of minutes where I have played well.

"I understand the media interest because they like to follow your ups and downs and they were my first big 'mistakes' at Chelsea. I accept that."

Cech, 27, admits his position between the posts in unique and he has a special relationship with his fellow 'keepers.

"There is definitely an unspoken understanding between the 'goalkeepers union.' I keep in touch with other goalkeepers like Pepe Reina, to joke about who can keep the most clean sheets.

"I find it's good to share experiences because it helps you learn. Keepers always back one another. If one of us has had a bad game, the other keeper will commiserate and put his arm around your shoulder and say 'it's only a game.'

"As a keeper it's always your fault if you make mistakes. When the outfield players make mistakes, it doesn't always affect the game in the same way. That makes being in goal a really tough job.

"We're not crazy, just very brave. We have to throw ourselves at people's feet in the six yard box and it's not easy but when you make a good save, you get such a rush, it's like a striker when he scores a good goal.

"That's why I like being a goalkeeper. I have always like individual sports like tennis, and goalkeeping has its unique aspects but I prefer team sports like ice hockey because you get a sense of camaraderie and working together towards one goal."

Carlo Ancelotti Plays Down John Terry's Chelsea Exit Talk

There are few one-club men left in the modern game and John Terry, a seemingly sturdy symbol of all things Chelsea, was long regarded as the modern embodiment of a dying sentiment. However, as Manchester City loomed ominously over Stamford Bridge with a cloud of financial clout, temptations may have been swayed.

Italian tactician Carlo Ancelotti, though, has today indicated that he hopes Terry will remain at the club, as he intends on keeping his "important" players together.

The former AC Milan manager, a trainer with grand pedigree in continental success both as a player and as a coach, has already overseen his first training sessions and has therefore begun to assess his squad.

The 50-year-old has singled out a spine of English talent as fundamental to the club's success; the captain Terry, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole have been included for special praise from Ancelotti.

Together with the aforementioned Anglican trident, a further trio - one of recruits - have been gaining press for their differing backgrounds and new responsibilities. When pressed as to how former Middlesbrough goalkeeper Ross Turnbull, highly-rated forward Daniel Sturridge, and Russian trickster Yuri Zhirkov, were coping with the rigours of life in west London, Ancelotti responded on the club's official website, "They work very well. They have a good relationship between the players, a very good team spirit.

"There are some players that are important for this team, [John] Terry, [Frank] Lampard, [Joe] Cole, very important."

Chelsea are about to leave for a potentially money-spinning tour of the United States. They face Seattle on Saturday.

Jose Mourinho: Carlo Ancelotti Is Not My Friend, Real Madrid & Juventus Not Special, Journalist Questions Are 'Gay'

It's a new season for Jose Mourinho, but he is back to his old habits as he takes a swipe at Milan, Juventus, European big spenders Real Madrid, as well as new Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti. He also bizarrely labelled a couple of questions from a journalist as 'gay'.

Mourinho gave a 360 degree press conference at Appiano Gentile during his first day back at work as pre-season begins for the Serie A champions. Those who were there could be forgiven for feeling a sense of deja-vu as the coach resumes his verbal challenges.

"Real Madrid? I have nothing special to say on Real Madrid. We might not even play them this season. I am not scared of them. They are a world club with great players and they will be under the spotlight, but I have nothing to say," Mourinho told Sky Sport Italia

"I am not scared of Italian teams either. What they have been doing is normal. Everyone wants to get better and that's obvious (referring to recent spending by Juventus)."

Mourinho continued to give his usual smart answers as he tried to out-wit the press who fired questions hand over fist, but the coach was quick to press the buzzer with his responses which, at times, caused controversy.

"Your question sounds gay to me," said Mourinho when he was twice asked to give a clue about the type of defender he was looking for.

"You say blonde, brown, fair," as he continued to joke with the media.

He then spoke of objectives and of his plans to push through his squad-chop plans.

"I always have the same objectives. I am satisfied to return. I like working, playing, coaching. I like the competition," added the coach.

"We are to start work straight away for next week's friendlies. I am happy and satisfied.

"The squad size? It's a problem for me. I am not happy. Its not good for working. It's XI against XI in a match and having 30 players in training is not positive.

"The players who I want to go know I don't want them to stay. It's not good for the team. It's negative.

"Today it seems players are interested in money and lifestyle rather than anything else. Some players prefer to stay in a team where the coach doesn't want him, rather than find another team.

"[Luis] Jimenez made the move to West Ham and it's good for him. Other players dont want to leave and I have to respect the law and contracts.

"My ideas won't change about certain players. I won't change my mind about them."

The 'Special One' then gave his views on the transfer market, preferring to stick to his no-comment style.

"Nedved? I am not speaking about any players who are not here," he added

"It's always the same story. The market is open until the end of the summer. We will see if other clubs are interested in our players.

"Are Inter complete? We play with 11 players. We are complete, but there are different ways of seeing things. We want eight players to leave the team and four players to arrive so the team grows in the direction myself and the club wants to grow."

Mourinho then went on to bemoan the pre and post-match analysis in Italy, saying he preferred England. "It's easier to coach in England because people think about football for 90 minutes. In Italy there are 60 million coaches in the country."

To complete the press conference, Mourinho was asked about former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti, and whether he will do well after taking over at Chelsea. The Special One's response was raw, and certain to spark a war of words with Ancelotti, whom he did not enjoy a good relationship with last season.

"Ancelotti is not my friend," Mourinho sniped.

Chelsea Plotting €70m Plus Deco And Carvalho Swap For Inter's Ibrahimovic

Chelsea are planning a sensational swoop for Zlatan Ibrahimovic, according to The News of the World.

Apparently, the Blues are ready to offer €70 million plus Ricardo Carvalho and Deco, the Portuguese pair in whom the Nerazzurri have expressed interest.

Ibrahimovic is well aware of the London club's interest, saying, "I am fully aware that Chelsea want to sign me and, of course, it is very flattering.

"They are one of the biggest teams in Europe and the Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world."

If the deal goes through, it will more than double Chelsea's record transfer fee, when they paid €34m for Andriy Shevchenko.

Chelsea would also have to match Ibrahimovic's current wages of around €12m per year, but the Swedish striker insisted that a potential move was not about money.

"Money is not the most important thing," he continued. "I will base my decision on what's good for me, what suits me.

"It is about asking: will I still be able to be special in the league that I am going to, the team I am going to? Are my qualities right for the Premier League or not?"

Deco willing to stay at Blues

Portugal international Deco had been linked with a move away from the Premier League club following a largely disappointing debut campaign in West London.

Though Deco scored in his first two games for the Blues, he struggled with injuries and then made just three appearances during Guus Hiddink's short reign.

He had expressed a desire to be reunited with his former Porto boss Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan, however the Italian champions are not willing to meet Chelsea's asking price.

The Brazilian-born playmaker is now prepared to stick with the Blues before seeking a move back to his homeland.

"I am getting tired of Europe, but out of respect for Chelsea, I will stay on this continent a while longer," Deco told A Bola.

"I have some offers from other clubs, but if I stay at Chelsea it's important that some things change because things happened last year that I did not like.

"I have had some adaptation problems in England and I've been sidelined with several injuries."

Only Real Madrid Can Afford Franck Ribery

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has suggested his new club are not finished in the transfer market this summer, though he believes Franck Ribery will not be joining him. Indeed, if the Bayern Munich star goes anywhere, it will be to Real Madrid, in the Italian's opinion.

Ancelotti was unveiled as Chelsea boss yesterday and faced the press for the first time at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian revealed his admiration for the Bayern winger and said that, although the Blues are looking for a creative spark, he thinks Ribery will stay in Germany.

"Chelsea are a strong team, a physical team doing very well," Ancelotti said, according to Sky Sports.

"They can be improved with some creative players. We are looking for these creative players.

"Ribery is, for sure, a great, great player. But Ribery, I think, he will stay in Bayern Munich."

Ancelotti added that only Real Madrid may be able to afford the France international.

He continued, "Madrid can buy Ribery, I know. Not only Ribery, but [Liverpool midfielder Xabi] Alonso as well. I know how many players Madrid can buy."

Roman Pavlyuchenko, Milos Krasic & Aleksandr Boroduk Hail Chelsea Recruit Yuri Zhirkov

Tottenham Hotspur forward Roman Pavlyuchenko has lauded Chelsea's latest recruit, Yuri Zhirkov, as a character who can boast strong leadership credentials, while a former team-mate of the 25-year-old's - Milos Krasic – has opined that the new Blue was the best footballer in his homeland.

"I'm very glad Yuri has moved to Chelsea," Pavlyuchenko explained to the official website of UEFA. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime offer and you have to say 'yes.' Zhirkov is a great professional. He could become a team leader. The only problem is his knowledge of the English language. If he masters that, all will be well."

Learning English and grasping the complexities of the language was also a snag cited by former Manchester United winger Andrei Kanchelskis, who earlier stated that should the former CSKA man master English, then he could make as instant an impact as Arsenal star Andrey Arshavin.

Zhirkov's first boss, Valeri Sharapov, coached the winger as a ten-year-old, and praised his intensive attitude toward training. "His control of the ball is a natural gift. Even after training, he stayed outside to play with his friends and went to sleep with the ball," the coach said.

Serbia attacker Krasic, a former team-mate of Zhirkov, who would oft have spent his match-days mirroring the productivity of the £18 million man on the opposite flank, added, "Yuri is the best footballer in Russia. At the European Championships he showed his class to the world. He also played consistently for the club. I am not surprised Chelsea came in for him. Zhirkov is totally worth it."

Russian assistant coach Aleksandr Boroduk told UEFA’s website, "One of his biggest strengths is that he continues to outdo himself. That tells you all about his character. I also want to underline his personal qualities: he is a fabulous person."

Manchester City To Offer Chelsea Stalwart John Terry £300,000-A-Week

Although Chelsea have been rebuffing Manchester City's advances thus far, John Terry has apparently been rocked by the latest contract offer coming from Eastlands.

According to The Sun, Chelsea have rejected a £30 million offer from City but are expecting a £40m bid in the near future, while Terry has been told he would be paid a staggering £300,000-a-week.

The centre-back has apparently been interested in the Citizens' project for some time, but the tabloid reports that he has been taken aback by Mark Hughes' persistence. The England and Chelsea captain is already earning a weekly salary of £150,000 at Stamford Bridge, but City's offer would make him the highest-paid player in the world by some distance.

After the Kaka saga in January, Manchester City's owners are intent on bringing a superstar to Eastlands this year, and it appears that Terry is the man.

The deals for Carlos Tevez and Samuel Eto'o remain unsigned, but Mark Hughes believes that Terry is key to any success Manchester City may have next year as the defence is in need of strengthening.

Carlo Ancelotti Wants Alexandre Pato At Chelsea For Pre-Season Training

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti wants to push through a deal to bring Alexandre Pato to Stamford Bridge in time for pre-season training next Monday, according to reports.

The Pato transfer saga has dragged on since the announcement of Ancelotti's appointment at Chelsea.

Milan are rumoured to have continued to rebuff the Blues' approaches for their Brazilian teenage sensation, with an offer of around €45 million (£38.8m) believed to be the latest bid rejected.

Adriano Galliani has insisted Pato is not for sale, but The Sun is now reporting Chelsea officials are set to meet with Milan representatives in the next 24 hours to discuss a deal, with Ancelotti apparently yet to arrive in London as he awaits news of the negotiations.

The former Milan coach officially became Chelsea manager on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are set to sign Middlesbrough goalkeeper Ross Turnbull and Manchester City striker Daniel Sturridge, with a tribunal deciding a compensation fee for the latter as his contract has expired and he is under the age of 23.

The Blues begin their pre-season friendlies with a trip to America to face the Seattle Sounders on July 18.

Ross Turnbull Expected To Complete Chelsea Switch

Ross Turnbull, formerly of Gareth Southgate's relegated Middlesbrough side, is widely expected to complete a lucrative switch to contemporary domestic heavyweights Chelsea, according to the Gazette.

The 24-year-old is currently a free agent, after his contract at the Teesside outfit expired on Wednesday, and negotiations between player and potential future employer are allegedly going well.

Turnbull will compete with Portuguese shot-stopper Henrique Hilario for a place on the Blues bench, and will, if successful, become Czech Republic international Petr Cech's understudy.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are also pursuing more high-profile targets, and Russian winger Yuri Zhirkov, a player who is not opposed to hard graft in midfield, is also widely expected to be unveiled as a Blue in the coming days.

Zhirkov commands a lot of respect in Russia, in particular with current CSKA Moscow boss Zico, who has often stated that the 'Russian Ronaldinho' is one of the greatest players he has worked with, and would be a natural fit in the Premier League.

Michael Ballack Reveals Chelsea's Champions League Desire

Despite Chelsea's ageing squad, there still remains an insatiable hunger for further titles in the Blues camp, according to Germany international Michael Ballack, who spoke recently of his desire to add to the FA Cup win from last season with further success next season.

Since wealthy Russian sponsor Roman Abramovich bought the Stamford Bridge outfit in 2003, a continental triumph in the Champions League has been the top priority, and Ballack spoke of how the Chelsea dressing room desires Europe's most prestigious trophy more than any other.

"We have to focus, that is for sure. We are hungry to win the [league] title back," Ballack told Chelsea TV. "There is also a big target in Europe again, because that is what we want to do as well.

"Chelsea are a big team with a lot of international players, and they want to win the Champions League."

Elsewhere, Luiz Felipe Scolari recently lifted the lid on whom he felt was responsible for his mid-season axing from west London, indicating that a trident of senior players were perhaps the catalyst for his departure. Michael Ballack was one of the three, Scolari claimed, alluding to how player power is more rife than ever.

Chelsea Appeal Drogba & Bosingwa Bans

Chelsea have this afternoon confirmed that they will be appealing against the suspensions awarded by UEFA to striker Didider Drogba and right-back Jose Bosingwa, after the pair showed extreme and, in Drogba's case, publicly foul-mouthed dissent to referee Ton Henning Ovrebo.

The controversy occurred after the Champions League semi-final second leg between the Blues and Barcelona last season, in which the Londoners were beaten by a last-minute goal and had serveral penalty appeals waved away by Ovrebo.

The Ivorian was handed a six-match ban for his outburst, with the last two games suspended for two years, whilst Bosingwa, who reportedly branded the referee "a thief", received a four-match ban, with, again, the last two suspended for two years.

The club was also fined £100,000 (138,000 euros) for the players' improper conduct and the throwing of missiles by its supporters.

A statement on the club's official website reads:
"Chelsea Football Club can confirm it has today lodged an appeal against the UEFA bans given to Didier Drogba and José Bosingwa, and the fine imposed against the club. We believe these punishments are unnecessarily harsh given the circumstances.

"We would reiterate that the players and the club are acutely aware of our responsibilities towards setting a good example as role models and upholding the values of the game.

"That is why honest and sincere apologies were made swiftly after these regrettable incidents occurred."

Pato Should Not Leave AC Milan, Leonardo Will Be A Great Coach - Pele

Chelsea continue to be linked with a high-profile move for AC Milan starlet Alexandre Pato in the English and Italian media.

However, the striker's compatriot, former Brazilian legend and three-time World Cup winner Pele, has advised the striker to remain in Serie A, rather than move to the Premier League.

"Pato is a great player for the future, but if I were him I would never leave Italy for England," he claimed, according to Goal.com Italia.

"That atmosphere would be more difficult for a player with his technique."

The 68-year-old was also confident that Leonardo will succeed as the new boss of the Rossoneri, despite this being his first head coaching role.

"I know Leonardo very well. He is very serious and knows Italian football by heart. He will be a good coach."

Pele has become infamous down the years for his wrong predictions, so Milan fans will be hoping that he is right about both Pato staying, and Leonardo becoming a fine coach.

Yuri Zhirkov To Sign For Chelsea On Wednesday

Yuri Zhirkov has been linked with a move away from CSKA Moscow for some time now, with Chelsea and Barcelona both thought to be in the running for the player's signature.

The Russia international insisted earlier this month he had no knowledge of Chelsea's interest, but news daily Sport-Express reports that the 25-year-old defender, who can also play on the left wing, will fly to London on Wednesday to rubber-stamp a four-year contract.

It is believed that the signing of Zhirkov, who has been one of Europe's most sought-after players since his impressive displays for Russia at Euro 2008, will cost Chelsea a fee in the region of €20 million.

Luis Felipe Scolari Blames Three Chelsea Players For His Sacking

Former Chelsea manager Luis Felipe Scolari has stated that Michael Ballack, Didier Drogba and Petr Cech were the main reasons he was sacked last season.

The Brazilian coach spent eight months at Stamford Bridge before being sacked by owner Roman Abramovich, and he has stated that the Blues players are too powerful.

The Blues began the season well under the former Brazil coach, but the team lost ground in the title race and Scolari was replaced by Guus Hiddink on a temporary basis.

Now though, Scolari has gone public and said that Cech, Drogba and Ballack were instrumental in his failure, as they refused to adhere to his training methods.

Speaking to Brazilian newspaper O Globo, Scolari said, "The real owners of football at the moment are the players. The coach, in most European clubs, has no strength to contradict them.
"The people sacked are always the coaches. The main players already know this.

"That was my problem at Chelsea. Drogba, Ballack and Cech did not accept my training methods or my demands."

Meanwhile, the former Portugal coach has praised Brazil international Kaka for showing a calm head during his big money move to Real Madrid.

The former AC Milan star moved to the Santiago Bernabeu earlier this summer for a fee of £56 million, and Scolari feels the player has shown that he is a true professional, believing he will become good friends with Cristiano Ronaldo, who will finalise his move to Madrid on July 1.

"Kaka is a strange player, because of what he does, both on and off the field," Scolari commented.

"That guy is a strange jewel. Despite having gained big fame and money, he keeps doing his best on the pitch like a youngster.

"I am sure Cristiano Ronaldo and he will get on very well with each other. Cristiano has nothing to do with the conceited image everybody has of him. I think both of them will be big friends"

"Real Madrid's problem is Raul. He is already a veteran and he still is in charge of the dressing room."

Scolari is now reportedly managing in Uzbekistan with FC Bunyodkor, where former Brazil legend Rivaldo plays his football.

Chelsea Prepare New Onslaught For Milan's Pato

According to reports from the News of the World, Carlo Ancelotti has been given a massive €118m ‘welcome present’ as he looks to tweak the current Chelsea line-up to his liking.

With the former Milan coach has making no secret of his desire to bring former pupil Alexandre Pato to Stamford Bridge, it now seems Chelsea are ready to transform Pato’s current unsellable status with an indecent proposal of €60m.

After Milan reportedly turned down a monster offer from an unnamed English club earlier in the month, it remains to be seen how the Rossoneri will react to another assault from British shores.

However, given the way the Kaka saga unfolded, a re-consideration on behalf of the Milan club cannot be ruled out, in face of such riches.