Chelsea In Pole Position After Sturridge's Contract Talks Stumble

Chelsea are favourites to sign England's hottest teenage striker Daniel Sturridge in January, following a breakdown in contract talks between the player and Manchester City.

The Stamford Bridge club are taking the latest wrangle involving the 19-year-old as a signal for them to move and could even include Mark Hughes' target Wayne Bridge as part of a £10million deal.

Sturridge is considered the most exciting graduate of Jim Cassell's famed Manchester City Academy since Shaun Wright-Phillips but he is worried about a lack of opportunity, with the club's new owners keen to bring in world-famous strikers like Argentine Sergio Aguero.

Although Sturridge has attracted interest from virtually all the Premier League's big clubs in the past two years, Chelsea's rivals are now backing away from a fight as they believe his move to Stamford Bridge is virtually a done deal.

Aston Villa had harboured hopes that Birmingham-born Sturridge might consider a return "home".

Although the teenager would not be cheap, he is affordable as he is out of contract in the summer. Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich no longer wants to compete with City for superstars like Aguero and wants his club to break even by 2010-11.

Sturridge has scored only one goal this season and Hughes even picked Welsh youngster Ched Evans ahead of him.

The City manager has bemoaned the lack of experienced strikers at the club and is ready to sacrifice the teenager to improve other areas of the team.

Another player on his way out of Manchester City is forward Nery Castillo, who has revealed his desire to move to Spain next season. The Mexico international is on loan at Eastlands until December but hopes to quit Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk.

Chelsea Cruise Past Albion

FOR CHELSEA it could hardly have gone more to plan and their performance could hardly have been more professional. First they withstood West Bromwich Albion’s early onslaught. Then, once Albion’s sting had been drawn they scored three clinical goals before half-time, just to remind everyone who leads the Premier League this morning. And finally, they played out the second half with neither fuss nor ado.

Albion, meanwhile, started the evening at the bottom of the pile and there they lie this morning, in ever increasing danger of losing touch with the pack and losing hope.

The quirk of an evening kick-off and Liverpool’s perfunctory lunch-time victory over Bolton meant this was no longer a bottom versus top encounter, but as Albion manager Tony Mowbray admitted in midweek, a team who kicked off having conceded just one goal on their Premiership travels this season were hardly his visitors of choice.

And, forever destined to swash-buckle despite being without a victory since October 4, Mowbray again kept the faith, pausing only to restore James Morrison and Abdou-laye Meite.

Another calf – this time Petr Cech’s – ruled out the Chelsea goal-keeper, but even with a fistful of fellow absentees, Ashley Cole, Didier Drogba and Michael Essien found themselves only on the bench.

Albion began brightly – Albion always begin brightly – and, with the lavishly gifted Borja Valero prompting, cajoling and firing a fusillade of pinpoint long balls towards Ishmael Miller and Roman Bednar, they momentarily threatened to seize the moment. Yet, for all their undeniable eagerness Albion’s front pair crashed time and time again against John Terry and Branis-lav Ivanovic.

Morrison blasted an early piledriver inches over Carlo Cudicini’s bar early on, but with John Obi Mikel chaperoning Chelsea’s defence like an overprotective older brother on prom night, they created only one real chance in the first period, 15 minutes in, when Valero surprised even himself by spinning around Mikel so deftly the Nigerian ended up on his backside. He guided a through ball into Miller’s path, only for the youngster’s shot to flash across goal.

Chelsea bided their time. Initially, they seemed all at sea. For all Nicolas Anelka’s recent goal glut, he seemed as starved of service as Russian aristocrats after the communist revolution. Deco flitted hither and thither to little effect, but Miller’s miss had aroused the beast within. Florent Malouda offered a glimpse of what was about to come with a magnificent ball into the ever-yawning gap between Meite and Gianni Zuiverloon. Scott Carson saved excellently from Frank Lampard.

Lampard’s miss marked the moment Deco settled himself in central midfield and the scales began to tip Chelsea’s way. After 34 minutes, so did the scoreline. There seemed little danger, certainly in Carson’s mind, when Jose Bosingwa collected the ball 25 yards out on the right, but the Portuguese looked up, noted Carson’s sloppy positioning and curled it home with his left. Even at that point, there seemed no way back for Albion against a team who had conceded just four Premiership goals all season and none of them in the second half.

First, Meite’s poor clearance reached Malouda, who unleashed the coiled spring that was Anelka. Greedy after his possession, the Frenchman sprinted into the penalty area and as Carson dived to the ground, chipped gently into goal.

Morale tumbling like house prices, the last thing Albion needed was to concede a third before half-time. They conceded a third before half-time. Deco found Saloman Kalou on the right, the Ivorian danced through a timid defence, curled a magnificent through ball to the onrushing Anelka, who daintily guided Chelsea’s third past Carson.

Cowed for possibly the first time this season, Mowbray plumped for damage limitation after the break. Off went Bednar, on came Kim DeHeon and Albion flooded midfield, hoping the hitherto marginalised Morrison and Jonathan Greening would offer Miller support.

Instead, although substitute Filipe Teixeira flashed a piledriver inches over, such was Chelsea’s insouciant dominance, that Albion’s midfield quintet left the struggling home defence with even less cover and only some prodigal finishing from a team who knew they were about to return to the top of the league prevented the scoreline from getting out of hand.

Shortly after Anelka had been denied his second hat-trick in three league games by a brave Ryan Donk, he was replaced by this week’s whipping boy, Drogba. His cameo passed without incident, just as the evening had passed with little to ruffle Chelsea. Men against boys.

WEST BROM: Carson 5, Zuiverloon 4, Meite 4 (Donk 68min), Olsson 4, Robinson 4, Koren 5, Morrison 5 (Teixeira 58min, 5), Greening 5, Valero 6, Miller 6, Bednar 5 (Kim ht, 5)

CHELSEA: Cudicini 6, Bosingwa 7, Ivanovic 7, Terry 7, Bridge 6, Lampard 6, Mikel 6. Deco 7, Malouda 7, Kalou 6 (Ballack 68min), Anelka 7 (Drogba 74min)

Chelsea’s record breakers

Chelsea’s comprehensive 3-0 win at West Bromwich Albion last night ensured another record Premier League start to the campaign. The seventh straight away victory this season was also their 10th away win in a row, breaking the Premier League record they set in the 2004-05 campaign, and equalling the top-flight mark set by Tottenham in 1960

Chelsea, though, are still one shy of the record eight consecutive away wins at the start of a season set by Tottenham in 1960-61.

Tottenham went on to win a record 16 of their 21 away games in 1960-61 to take the title. West Brom and Everton are the only other sides to have won six in a row away from home at the start of a season.

Chelsea’s reborn forward Nicolas Anelka has been key to the run, scoring seven of their 19 away goals this season, including five in the past two games. His teammate Frank Lampard has been on target three times while defender Jose Boswinga , who scored the Blues’ opener last night, has hit two

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Mourinho Hits Back At Scolari

Jose Mourinho has hit out at Big Phil after the later labeled him as arrogant. The War of words is only destined to get intense as the Special One has yet again not backed off.. It was a fierce reaction by the current Nerazzurri coach blaming Scolari for raising his name in the press without any reasons.

The Portuguese said; “Why Scolari said these things? I don’t know, you have to ask him,” said Mourinho.



“Obviously, everyone has noticed that by talking about me, they make the headlines. It’s free publicity for them.”

Mourinho Moves On After Lamps Snub

Inter Milan coach Jose Mourinho refuses to get down after missing out on the Chelsea star

Mourinho instead looked to the future and was happy to have secured the transfer of Ghana midfielder Sulley Muntari from Portsmouth.

He told Sky Sports: "I am not the sort of manager who cries. I look forward and move on.

"I could have waited until August 31 to see what could happen, I am not that type of person.

"When we were sensing the situation was not going to happen, we made our decision and I am very happy to have Muntari.

"He is a good boy, a good player, I always like players who previously worked with good managers and he worked with one of the best in English football, so he will have learned a lot with Harry (Redknapp).

"I prefer to think about Sulley than about Frank Lampard.

"He will be in Chelsea, it is because he will be happy, and I have no more comment about it."

Chelsea Confirms Robinho Bid

Reports in Thursday's newspapers claimed that Blues had lodged a £19.7 million for the former Santos man which have now been confirmed by the London club.



"Further to media reports, Chelsea Football Club can confirm we have made an offer to Real Madrid today for the transfer of Robinho," the London club said on their website.

Robinho has been the topic of much speculations linking him with a move away from the Bernabau. The want away striker has made it no secret and has spoken out in the press that he desires to play for the Blues.

The 24-year-old was also disappointed by the Primera Liga club's insistence that he remain in Spain instead of joining the Brazil Olympic squad, in which he was named as an overage player.

Robinho was reported by the Spanish press as wanting to work with new Chelsea boss and fellow Brazilian Luiz Felipe Scolari

Hoeness Blasts Abramovich - For Oil Prices

Hoeness launched an astonishing attack on the Chelsea Russian Billionaire owner blaming him for the ever increasing oil prices and even called the Russian, “mafia member”. The Bayern Chief had no clue what he was saying, declaring Chelsea the Bundesliga Champions' enemies for the high oil prices.

Hoeness claims Abramovich manages to sign players thanks to the money he ‘steals’ from people when he ‘fixes’ the price of petrol.

“I’m irritated when I have to tank up every week,” he told Spox. “Those petroleum mafias steal our money and use it to sign footballers.

“This stinks and Abramovich is part of this.

“No, he’s not my friend. Those mafias rule the entire world and manipulate petrol’s price.

“Our best revenge would be to beat teams such as Chelsea. It would be a huge satisfaction.”

Sahar Aiming High

Chelsea loaned the highly rated striker to Portsmouth to gain first team exeperience during the forth coming season giving Harry Redknapp an embarrassment of riches in the striking department.

Despite the intense competition for places, Sahar is determined to force himself into Redknapp's reckoning. The Israeli said, "Wembley would be great, especially on my birthday - and against United as well.

"Obviously I want to play every game but we have good strikers, which makes it difficult because I want to show people I can play and score a few goals.

"I'm happy to have the opportunity to fight for a place with such good players. It is not something I fear. I enjoy the competition and if I get my chance I want to make sure I take it.

"The longer pre-season has gone, the sharper I'm feeling and with big games coming up I want to be part of them as well."

Terry Ready To Face Mourinho

Mourinho became an idol during his 3 year stint in the West London winning several major trophies including two premier league titles and an F.A cup. Mourinho had an unbrakeable relationship with his untouchables which also included Terry and was respected by each n every corner of the Stamford Bridge. The charismatic Portuguese left the club during last season by 'mutual consent' following a reported brake-up with the club owner.

Terry said at the prospect of facing his former boss:

"All the lads are already saying we’ll get Inter in the Champions League and you just know we probably will meet them,"

"Jose was a top manager and someone I loved working with," he continued. "But it was a change the club made so we’ve moved on and moved forward.


When Asked on to tell the similarities and differences between Mourinho's and Scolari's coaching styles, the Blues captain said:

"Pre-season has been very different this year," he said. "Under Jose we never did any running but with Scolari we’ve had our trainers on and done 1,000 metres, which is similar to the Vialli and Ranieri style of thinking.

"Now we all feel really good and well prepared for our opener against Portsmouth.



Terry added: "Scolari understands football and the lads. I was really pleased when Peter Kenyon phoned to tell me they were going to announce his appointment.

"I first met him at a game he came to watch and chatted for 15 minutes. I was phoning people afterwards telling them that I’d met him and what a great guy he was. Then it turns out some time later that he’s our new boss."

Ranieri - I'm Still Bitter

Ranieri was infamously sacked by the Russian owner after he failed to deliver any silwerware during the 2003 season. The Stamford Bridge faithful didn't take it as a good omen and concerns were raised about the club's future in the Stanford Bridge stands.

however, Ranieri has spoken of his bitterness after 4 years. He said, "I am bitter. Before Roman Abramovich came to Chelsea, I was doing my job. I carried on doing it for him and wanted to continue. At the end I knew the players and supporters were with me even if the club was not."

On the prospect of being drawn with the Premier League and Champions League runners up, he said: "I would love to play Chelsea. I want to take Juventus to Stamford Bridge, not out of revenge or spite, but just to show the fans, players, and the club, that this is what I do now and this is the team I have built,"

Scolari - No More Cash Splash

Chelsea have been an untouchable spending force in the market when it comes to buying players for half a decade. Since the Russian oil tycoon Roman Abramovich bought the club in 2003, Chelsea have forked out in excess of 500 million pounds on players, most remarkably on the acquisition of Andriy Shevchenko, slaming the British transfer record.




But the recently appointed Blues coach believes that the spending days are over as the Blues already have indispensable quality and a star studded squad. The Blues manager said: "Since I came to Chelsea we have only spent £8million on Deco. Jose Bosingwa arrived before I came."

"Now they don't need to spend as much because they already have a solid base. They need a coach to develop young players and I am that coach."

Ballack - No Injury Worries

Michael Ballack who had an excellent Eoro 2008 campaign n showed his true worth during the later part of the season had been granted an extended break following his marriage. Nonetheless, The German midfield maestro has returned from his honeymoon and has been working extremely hard to catch up with the squad and get back into shape

The German told the official Chelsea website, "It is much harder to work on your own, but now I am with the team and I have extra sessions of my own with the fitness coach. In England you have no winter break so this [the summer rest] is the rest for the whole season - and you need this."




"I hope the body can make a quick recovery. The new fitness is not a problem because if you are one week early or late it is not so important, and there is little difference by the start of the season."

Juve In For Ivanovic

Ivanovic has become a forgotten figure in the Blues ranks since his 9 million pounds move to the West London club. The Serbian defender has yet to make a first team appearance and is believed to be unhappy with the club.

It has widely been tipped that Juventus are interested in signing the 24 year old Blues outcast and the latest reports in England claim that the Serbian is closing in on a move to Bianconeri.



The Juve backline has been at the centre of much criticism so far this season, with many believing that Giorgio Chiellini is the only reliable defender in the squad. Reports claim that Brani isn't the part of Scolari's plans for the next season and a bid of 5 million euros from the Bianconeri may be enough to secure the move to the Old Lady.

Deco In Robinho Plea

The Brazilian born Portuguese has hailed Robinho by rating him Spectacular. Robinho had an amazing season last term with Real Madrid and has vastly been tipped to leave Santiago Bernabau after the talks over new contract stalled last week.

Despite it Los Marengues have insisted on several occasions that they want to keep hold of the tricky winger who was the fundamental figure in last season. They have also reported to have rejected Blues bid of £31.5 million bid.

Deco believes that Robinho would be a perfect addition to the squad and would add an extra dimension to the Blues attack. Deco said in Guardian, "He's a spectacular player,"

"He's got incredible skill, has magic in his feet and is capable of anything on a football pitch.

"His quality is amazing. It would be great if he joined us and he'd be made very welcome here."

"Everybody wants to see good football and, in fact, the first rule for winning football is to make sure we play well," said the Portuguese International.

"This team has players with great quality who can play high-calibre football, good quality and exciting football. It's the responsibility of all the players, not just me, to make sure that happens but I'm more than willing to assume that role. I want to play my part in this team playing exciting football so I'll take on this job happily.

"Opponents will try and stop us, and sometimes our games will not be spectacular. We must make sure we play winning football first and foremost, but we have the capability to make it exciting to watch."

Sheva Keen To Raid Fans Hearts

Andriy Shevchenko has blamed injuries for the two unsuccessful seasons he has had at the Stamford Bridge. The former AC Milan had a glittering goal scoring record before a mega bucks move to the West London Outfit but has seen his time limited on the pitch. Sheva joined Chelsea back in 2006 but has managed only a handful of goals, turning out to be one of the biggest flops in the history as he has weighed in with just nine league goals in that time.

Despite argubaly 2 pathetic seasons in London, the Ukaranian is determined to prove himself and win a place in the hearts of Blues' fans.

“During these two years at Chelsea I had two operations and a serious back injury,” Shevchenko told the club’s official website.

“If I will have the opportunity to train and play without injuries, I would like to leave my mark on the history of Chelsea.

“Injuries constantly kept me out of action.”

I have trained with the team only a week,” Shevchenko added. “The process of recovery is taking place normally and the injury doesn’t bother me.

“It is gratifying that the coach gave me an opportunity to get back to the rhythm of playing [during pre-season].

“We had a good conversation. I’m only now getting into shape and recovering from injury, so prefence is given to those players who are in better form.

“The coach always chooses the best players in order to choose the best scheme. I very much respect Scolari as a man and a great coach.

“I think the challenge for the coach now is to find the optimum team and help the players achieve their best form.

“Scolari has enough players to change the scheme of the game. He will be able to judge the best strategy.”

Robinho In Chelsea Talk

The Brazilian Winger has told the Spanish Newspaper Globoesporte that he is advanced talks with the West Londoners and the move to the Premier League definately on, though insisted nothing has been secured yet.


"The season is only just beginning and I have proposals from other clubs, such as Chelsea," he admitted.

"Nothing is secure, though. We're still talking."

The Brazilian is also upset on his absence from the Olympic squad and is potentialy unhappy with the Madrid's stance not to let him play for his national team in the Olympics.

"It's awful only being able to see the Olympic selection on television," he sighed.

"My intention was to join up with the group, but Real Madrid didn't want to release me. I'm very sorry about that."

Terry - United Have Hit Their Peak

Terry's latest comments follow the claim from Sir Alex Ferguson that there was no room for improvement in the Chelsea squad as all of the senior squad members had passed their best. John Terry in a way has hit out at Scotish tactician by insisting that United have hit their peak in the previous season.

But the real thrust of Ferguson’s argument – that United’s younger side are the team for the future – has also been denied by Terry who has claimed that the reigning European and Premier League champions have reached the pinnacle of their ability.



Instead, the Chelsea captain believes it is Luis Felipe Scolari’s side who will reach ‘another level’ having lost out to their rivals on the final day of the league season and in the final of the Champions League.

“They have had two good years and you have to stand back and take your hat off to them, but we know we were good last year and we have another level to go to,” Terry told Chelsea TV.

“Last year I think we saw the very best of Man United, but we have got an awful lot to come from last year.

“We have got improvements to make but I think Man United are at their peak.”

Despite suggestions that owner Roman Abramovich covets the Champions League more than any other trophy, Terry insists Premier League success is the priority for the coming season.

“The Premier League is the one we are after, we want to get that back,” Terry continued.

“And over the course of the season, to show that consistency and get that back off Man United would be fantastic.”

Ballack Place Not Guaranteed

has told his German midfield Maestro that his first team place isn't presumable presumable.


A report in TheNews Of The World claims that Philn Scolari

The News of the World says the new Blues boss drew up a backbone of nine ‘untouchables' for his first Premier League campaign. They are keeper Petr Cech, defenders John Terry, Ricardo Carvalho, Ashley Cole and Jose Bosingwa, midfielders Michael Essien, Frank Lampard and Deco plus striker Didier Drogba.

Scolari Appreciates Blues Performance Against Milan

It was a thundering display of breath-taking football in Moscow where the Blues totally ripped the 2007 Champions League winners apart. Anelka fired on all cylinders with his 4 strikes catching the eye of Scolari.

“The possibilities are better for the game against Portsmouth than they were before,” Scolari told the club’s official website.

“I am happy because I saw players go up in their level from training the last game.

“It was not the normal Milan, they had four of five players out, big players with quality, but our team played very well and the performance today was better than the four earlier games.”

“The game was important for Anelka but more important for us – the fans, the coach and the other players who will have more confidence in him,” Scolari added.

“Today was good not because he scored four goals but because he played more free and with more quality than in other games.

“He was playing against a big club and to get four goals against Milan, for his confidence it is fantastic and Anelka today and the last game played more inside the penalty area than before.

“That is where I asked him to play and where I need him, not right or left as before, because we have one striker and that is Anelka.”

“I have quality competitive players and they fight for places on the pitch. I have 22 here, five at home. I have a good team.”

Robinho Hands In A Transfer Request

If Marca are to believed then according to their reports Robinho has told the club officials that he wants to join his Brazilian compatriot Scolari at Stamford Bridge and is no longer interested in stayting at Santiago Bernabau.

Marca claims that the tricky forward is fed up with the club's stance not to offer him a contract he is demanding for. He is also reportedly unhappy of being used as a bait by the Madrid giants to lure Ronaldo away from Old Trafford.


Let me go to Chelsea," Marca claim Robinho told Calderón and Schuster. "I want to go to Chelsea in the same wat that Ronaldo wants to come to Madrid. It is the same thing."

Madrid are said to be ready to double his wages but they are still 2 million euros short of what West Londoners have offered him.



Schuster told reporters. "I've talked with him and he knows perfectly that he is an important part of our plans,". "He is a key player and we are not thinking about if he leaves or not."

It could also be a ploy used by him to force the club to offer a contract which meets his demands.

Anelka Impresses Scolari

It was amazingly a one sided affair in Moscow where the Londoners totally ran the show thanks to a great performance by Nicolas Anelka who smashed 4 past Milanese keeper Kalac.

Scolari admired the fact that Anelka was in top form scoring 4 goals in 60 minutes after which he was replaced by Shevchenko who again couldn't score. The frenchman who was played out of position last season is starting to flourish under his new coach.

Scolari said, "This game was important for Anelka but more important for us - the fans, the coach and the other players who will have more confidence in him,"

"Today was good not because he scored four goals but because he played more free and with more quality than in other games.

"He was playing against a big club and to get four goals against Milan, for his confidence it is fantastic."

"Anelka today and in the last game played more inside the penalty area than before," added Scolari.

"That is where I asked him to play and where I need him, not right and left as before, because we have one striker and that is Anelka."

And with Drogba getting ever closer to returning to training after a knee injury, Scolari admits he has some tough decisions to make before meaningful action begins.

"Maybe I will receive good news about Drogba and we have 12 days to train and maybe we will have something I don't expect," he said.

"I have quality, competitive players and they fight for places on the pitch. I have 22 here, five at home. I have a good team."

Chelsea Defeat Milan By 5 Goals - Match Report

Chelsea demolished the weakened Milan side thanks to the 4 goals houl by Nicolas Anelka. Milan were short of strikers as the Brazilian duo of Pato and Ronaldinho are away on international duty and the injuries to FIFA World Player of the Year Kaka and Borellio.

Frank Lampard opened the scoring before Nicolas Anelka bagged four goals as the Londoners won the third-place play-off in the Railways Cup pre-season tournament.

A strong Chelsea line-up saw Michael Ballack make his first appearance of the summer following his late return to the squad after Euro 2008 duty with Germany.

But it was his central midfield partner Lampard who put Phil Scolari's side ahead in the second minute when his curling free-kick went through the legs of Milan keeper Zeljko Kalac.

It was two in the eighth minute when Anelka latched on to a poor defensive header to fire home from the edge of the area.

And the Frenchman added a third 10 minutes later when Kalac's day went from bad to worse.

Attempting to clear a routine backpass, the Australian kicked nothing but air to allow Anelka to steal in and tap into an empty net.

Chelsea dominated the game and Shaun Wright-Phillips nearly headed a fourth soon afterwards as the Blues looked to make amends for their shootout defeat to Lokomotiv Moscow two days ago.

A Milan side with no recognised strikers, but featuring former Arsenal star Mathieu Flamini in midfield, provided little resistance and Anelka completed his hat-trick six minutes after the break.

Deco played in Florent Malouda down the left and the winger's cross found his countryman, who headed accurately into the corner of the net.

Remarkably if was four for Anelka and five for Chelsea in the 58th minute when another flowing move down the left ended with Malouda crossing once more for the former Bolton striker to volley home.

Drogba Set For A New Contract

Didier Drogba is set to be offered a new contract by Chelsea which would effectively put an end to a long running uncertainty regarding his future. Drogba expressed his anger and blasted the club for sacking Mourinho, thus speculations started to errupt regarding his future.

Luiz Felipe Scolari, is in regular contact with the injured striker and wants the club to agree a new £100,000-a-week deal to keep the Ivorian power-house at Stamford Bridge. Drogba's current sallery stands at £70,000 and has a contract which doesnt run out until the July of 2010. The new terms would be on the table when Felipao n the players return from their preseason tour.

It is understood, Drogba has convinced manager Scolari that he has his heart with Chelsea and he is ready to fire on all cylinders for the next season.



The Ivorian said, Chelsea want to speak and I am open to that. Money is not the decisive factor. If Chelsea put their confidence in me, it will be possible to accept the proposal.'

Gilliani Again Rules Out Sheva Swoop

Adriano Galliani has again quashed reports that the former Balloon d'Or winner is set to join the Rossoneri any soon. Scolari today has indicated that the Ukranian hitman wouldn't be in the starting lineup for their season opener against Pompey giving air to the specultions that it might be an end of a dismal spell for Andriy in England.



"In Europe, the prices for players are impossible," said Galliani

"It's right for us to have the right mix of players such as well established ones like Ronaldinho and young players like Cardaccio and Viudez.

"As for Shevchenko and Kaka? Those players are under contract with their clubs and they will not leave.

"Neither player will leave Milan or Chelsea and there is no point in disturbing them."

Wright Phillips Wont Quit Chelsea

Wright Phillips has impressed his new boss a lot and has been in good form lately. Though He has had a good preseason, he admitted the chance he missed against Moscow should have been put away by him.

He said, "I had a chance and should have scored which would have killed the game, and I am upset with myself because in training I always make the keeper work. I didn't this time.

"There were other chances but now move on and we have to get back on par with how we played in other games."



He added: "I was nervous walking up even though it was only a friendly tournament. We practiced them the day before and I just stuck with what I had done there. I took a side-footer and hit the post, the rest I drilled into the bottom corner so I did that.

"It was disappointing and we keep losing on penalties - we're not happy about it."

"It's nice for the boss to say I am an important part of the squad and I'm not really a person to quit on anything either.

"My room is everyone's meeting point, so we're just chilling and having some banter. It brings us all together - we've been mainly playing computer games

"There are a few bad players, but I won't mention any names! Joe Cole has been mentioned previously I think, but he has done okay."
"I can fight for my place as long as I am here and will continue to do so."

Frank 'Wanted To Leave' - Reveals Moratti

The owner of current Italian Champions Internazionale has revealed that he is certain, Lampard wanted to leave Stamford Bridge to rejoin with his predecessor Mourinho in hunt of a new challenge.

Moratti told Sky Sports Italia, "Was I disappointed by his attitude? Not at all, I found him to be very serious and focused.

"He wanted to leave Chelsea, I am certain of that, although it created a lot of anxiety for him and in fact he remained because of family matters.

"He stayed for his father, who he is extremely close to, and for his whole environment. Therefore he was unable to create that split that they expected and we were hoping for."



"Mourinho did hope for this move, but we knew it was going to be difficult.

"So instead we thought of a player who in terms of age and wages is a good deal: I am happy that Sulley Ali Muntari has arrived."

Cech- Chelsea Simply Have To Win Silverware

Cech who has always been considered as one of the most dependable shot stoppers in the world admitted that the Players were devastated last season by the team’s failure to land any silverware.

“To not win anything was a new experience for a lot of us," said the Czech International

"It was a strange feeling. It was very disappointing because we want to be first, we don't want to be second. It has given us the motivation for the new season.

“No-one has had to say anything to each other in the dressing-room about putting it right - everyone knows that second place isn't good enough for Chelsea.

"We want to win trophies. That is what the aim has been from the moment we all turned up for pre-season training."

Sheva First To Face The Chop

Big Phil has put an end any hopes of Sheva being a regular 11 by saying that the former AC Milan fan favorite would be left rotting on the bench for their season opener against Pompey on August 17, 2008. The Ukranian has had a miserable two years at the Bridge after the Blues payed a British record fee of 31 million euros to the Milanese side.

Felipao suggested that he would have a struggle to break into his Chelsea side in the coming campaign. Sheva again had a nightmare when he missed the only spot kick of the shoot out yesterday, leaving Felipao with his first defeat of Chelsea reign.

Scolari said: "I came here to this tournament to look at my team for the game against Portsmouth and I need to prepare my team for that game.

"If I have a chance to put three or four more players into the game, I will. If not, I will follow my idea for the game against Portsmouth.



"I'm not thinking about giving Shevchenko a game. If I need to put him or Franco Di Santo in the game, I will, but my idea is about Portsmouth. I know 75% of my team. Now, maybe 85%."

Carlo - Sheva To Stay At Chelsea

The Milan boss has put all the rumours to bed by stating that the former AC Milan hero would not be moving to any club during the summer transfer window.. It was believed that Milan wanted him badly following the injury to Boriello which ruled him out for the start of the forth coming season.

But Ancelotti said: 'Borriello has a problem which will be resolved quickly, so we will wait for him. Shevchenko will play at Chelsea this season.'



Milan are on their way to Moscow where they will take on Primera Liga side Sevilla before meeting the winner of the clash between Lokomotiv Moscow and Chelsea on Sunday.

Ancelotti revealed that 18-year-old striker Alberto Paloschi would deputise for Borriello in Milan's starting line-up for both games.

'Besides Kaka, Paloschi remains our only striker available, so he will play the next two games that are important tests against strong teams,' he added.

Chelsea To Make Kaka The Highest Paid Footballer

Kaka would earn a staggering amount of 22 million pounds if he were to sign for Chelsea.. Chelsea are willing to make AC Milan ace Kaka among the world's best paid sporting stars.

Sport says beyond their £250,000-a-week contract offer, which was tabled to Kaka's father and agent, Bosco Izecson Pereira, last week by Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon, the key to the mega bucks deal is image rights.



Along with a mooted £15 million signing on fee, which would be paid upfront to the Brazilian, Chelsea would also be willing to split the player's image rights 20:80. Broadly speaking, it could mean an annual £10 million bonus for Kaka above his £12 million salary.

Anelka Urges Blues To Sign The 'Classy' Brazilian

Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka is relishing the prospect of playing alongside Real Madrid and Brazil playmaker Robinho next season.

Anelka scored twice on Chelsea's Asia tour after being restored to his favourite role by Luiz Felipe Scolari and now the Frenchman is eager for Chelsea to land their top summer target.

Anelka believes that Robinho is perfect for Chelsea and he is the sort of player Chelsea must add to their already star studded squad to bolster their chances of wining both Premier League and Champions League



'He can play everywhere, he's a very good player,' said Anelka.

'He can score, he can give some assists. He's always good for a player like me - a striker - and for Chelsea.'

Milan Rule Out Sheva Signing

Rumours had it that the Ukranian hitman was heading back to Milan after a nightmare of a spell at Chelsea. The former AC Milan star failed to live up to his hefty price tag of 30 million pounds scoring a handful of goals during his 2 injury hit seasons at Stamford Bridge.

AC Milan have never hidden their desire of bringing back one of their most devastating strikers back to the San Siro, publicaly admiting an interest in him on a number of times. However it now seems that new Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari is keen on giving Shevchenko a chance which has put paid to any deal.



"He's not for sale" said Galliani. "I've asked officially and Roman Abramovich said no. So we must be serious and disciplined.

"Should a club say no, we must accept. It means we have to think of something else" he added.

Milan To Bid For Chelsea Outcast

According to the latest reports in Italian and English media, AC Milan are ready to launch an official inquiry for the rising Serbian star who has yet to play for the Blues after making a 9 million pounds move during the Winter Transfer Window.

Milan declared after their accusation of Ronnie that it was their last signing but the recent injury to Nesta has has led to some concerns and as a result the club are considering going back into the market for a stopper.

Latest reports in the Italian and English media suggest that Milan are eyeing up Chelsea’s forgotten man Branislav Ivanovic.

With fierce competition this season from John Terry, Riccardo Carvalho, and Alex, his chances also look slim this term, and as a result Milan are hoping to acquire the 24-year-old on a season-long loan deal, possibly with an option to sign him permanently next summer.

Ivanovic is not the only Chelsea player to have been linked with Milan in recent days, as the Italians are also said to be considering former star Andriy Shevchenko.

Cech Ready To Forget Sour Moscow Memories

Peter Cech has urged his Chelsea counterparts by saying that the best way to forget a losing final is to get to another final.. Chelsea are in Moscow where they lost the Champions League final last term to their bitter rivals Manchester United on penalties.



John Terry Misses An Important Penalty In the Champions League Final Shootout

"You can turn the page and go on because you have to do it, but of course the defeat stays in your mind for quite a while - and the best way to forget about the memories from the losing Final is to get to another one," Cech told the club's official website.

"Only like that do you forget about the defeats in finals and we still have plenty of time to do it.

"What happened in Moscow happened in the past and we are coming looking to the future because the two games will be important for us to prepare for the start against Portsmouth.

"So we come here only for this purpose. I can't talk for everyone else, but for myself it is in the past and the new season starts and I am only looking forward."

Chelsea Offload Ben Haim

Manchester City have announced on their website that they have completed the signing of the Chelsea outcast on a 4 year deal for an undisclosed fee, thought to be 5 million pounds. Ben Haim didn't enjoy the best of relationship with his Israeli counterpart Avram Grant leading the Israeli international to publicaly criticize his manager.

A successful work permit application is all that stands in the way of Tal Ben Haim's switch from Chelsea to Manchester City.

City have announced the agreement via their official website, stating: "The 26-year-old former Bolton man has penned a four-year contract and becomes Mark Hughes second signing as City manager.

"Ben Haim becomes the second Israeli player to join the Club following in the footsteps of City legend Eyal Berkovic."

Chelsea Wins Against Malaysian Select XI

Chelsea survived the biggest test of their pre-season tour so far as Nicolas Anelka and Ashley Cole scored to secure victory over a spirited Malaysian League Select team.

Luiz Felipe Scolari's side had been rarely threatened in their opening two pre-season games.

Despite again dominating for long spells in front of a crowd of around 70,000 at the atmospheric Shah Alam Stadium, the home side came close on several occasions through Selangor's Amirul Hadi Zainal.

But Chelsea completed their three-game Asian tour with a 100% record as Anelka and England defender Cole scored to seal the win.

The Blues will now jet off to Russia to face much tougher opposition in the Railway Cup, which begins for Chelsea with a match against Lokomotiv Moscow on Friday.

Scolari named another strong team, with Wayne Bridge starting at left-back at the expense of Cole, while Mikel John Obi returned to the side in the holding midfield role and midfielder Joe Cole made his first start of the tour after scoring off the bench last time out in Macau.

Chelsea were given their first real shock of the tour in the second minute as Amirul drilled a shot narrowly wide of the right post from the edge of the area with Petr Cech sprawling across his goal.

Summer signing Deco almost handed Chelsea a spectacular 14th-minute lead as Frank Lampard played a left-wing corner to the edge of the area for the waiting Portugal international to send a dipping volley forwards, only for Malaysia goalkeeper Helmi Eliza Elias to produce a spectacular diving save to beat the ball away to safety.

Anelka broke clear of the Malaysian backline two minutes later but fired his shot straight at Helmi, who plays for Malaysia Super League champions Kedah.

But the French striker was not to be denied midway through the first half as he collected Joe Cole's through ball, strode clear of the defence and fired across Helmi and into the bottom corner with 26 minutes on the clock.

Seven minutes before the break Selangor midfielder Amirul was again given time on the edge of the Chelsea penalty area, but once more he pulled his shot wide of the upright past a diving Cech.

Following four half-time changes, substitute Ashley Cole doubled the Chelsea lead seven minutes before the hour mark with a neat turn and finish from the edge of the six-yard area despite appearing to be offside after finding himself on the end of Lampard's pass into the Malaysia area.

Michael Essien had a chance to add to the Chelsea lead with 16 minutes remaining but Helmi was quickly off his line to smother the strike on the edge of the area.

Agent - Drogba To Stay At Chelsea

Didier Drogba is set to stay at Chelsea after his agent revealed that the Ivorian hit man wouldn't leave the West London outfit. Drogba has been qouted many times saying that he wanted a new challenge in his carrear. But now it looks like Drogba would be staying at the Bridge after Big Phil told the Chelsea Powerhouse that he had a role to play the forthcoming season.

Drogba is still very much a Chelsea player with just about two-and-a-half weeks remaining before the official start of the Premier League campaign, and it's looking increasingly likely that it will stay that way.



"Frankly there is nothing to departure to talk about because there is no departure in store," his agent said

"He has a contract with Chelsea and is not close to joining any other team."

Scolari blames Grant For Malouda's Failure

Big Phil has notoriously raised a finger at his predecessor for the first time by claiming that the Israeli wasted Malouda during last season by not playing him at his preferred position..

The Ex-Lyon superstar has failed to replicate his Lyon form and had a fairly below par first season at Stamford Bridge.. Mourinho signed the French International for 20 million euros but after the Special One's departure from the English game, Malouda had barely been given enough time on the pitch to prove his worth much to the fury of Scolari..



"I want to know if he stays with us, what is his best position," said Scolari

"Last season he played in a different position than he did at Lyon. I want him to play on the wing like he did in Lyon. He was wasted last season."

"I have the players for exciting football and I have the players for us to be champions,""Deco has his style and that style improves other players, so he can make everyone better, but there were chances for [Andriy] Shevchenko and Malouda tonight.

"Now it's a time for me to test the players. I'm seeing if we should play 4-4-2 or 4-3-3, or which position is best for each player, or whether some players would do better in some games or others," he added.

"These are practice games but the players are trying their best for Chelsea and also for themselves. After that I'll decide."

Lamps To Be Offered A New Bumper Deal

If Guardian are to be believed then according to their reports Frank is set to be offered a mega deal to shrug off any possibility of him being praised away by Mourinho managed Internazionale from the West London outfit.. Inter declared Lampard to be their top target earlier this month, giving air to rumours that lampard, after a highly successful 7 years at Chelsea might just leave Stamford Bridge..

But Guardian reports that Scolari has marked Lampard as an irreplaceable target after their unsuccessful pursuit of praising Kaka away from the San Siro.. Reports in the British tabaloid claim that Lampars will be offered a staggering wage of 150,000 pounds per week over the 54 years time period..


Both player and club have been involved in a year-long contractual stand-off, with Chelsea only prepared to extend the length of any deal to four years. Lampard wanted assurances from the Stamford Bridge outfit that a five-year offer would be tabled, and the dispute threatened to steer him towards the exit-door.

But it is believed that both parties have reached an agreement and the club's most consistent and valueable assest since the arrival of Russian Ticoon Roman Abromovich will end his career at Chelsea..

The Chelsea source stated: "There will be no movement on the money but the length of the deal is likely to be increased to meet Frank's demands. Hopefully when we return from the tour the issue can finally be put to bed."

It does seem a bit odd that Frank is holding out for another 12 months when a very favourable deal has been put to him,” he added.

“And by offering him the extra year at least we will know once and for all whether this has been the main obstacle preventing him from committing his future to the club."

The new deal would see Lampard potentially earn a staggering £37million over the next five years.

Blues Smashes 7 Past Chengdu Blades

THE ERA of Luiz Felipe Scolari may have begun in emphatic fashion with two handsome wins and 11 goals, but it would be premature to hail the Brazilian’s rebranded team as the great entertainers.

Such was the poverty of the opposition in Macau yesterday that Chelsea’s players have probably exerted themselves more in kickabouts in their back gardens. The visitors were able to stroll through this game, slicing open their hosts at will. Had they wanted to rack up double figures, they would surely have done so. Total control? Absolutely. Total football? Absolutely not.

In midweek, Scolari growled at the mere mention of Jose Mourinho, stating that, like Frank Sinatra, he would do it his way and that beautiful football would come second to winning.

However, the message from his players is that the former Brazil and Portugal manager is advocating a more gung-ho style in training, with two strikers rather than the one that has been the norm, and the club’s deep reservoir of attacking midfielders encouraged to show their creative sides.

Yet there was more than a hint of Mourinho in the personnel and formation that Scolari selected. It was a strong starting XI for late July and the tactics were a throw-back to Mourinho’s time, three central midfielders and two wingers complementing a single striker, in this case Nicolas Anelka.

As hosts, Chengdu Blades could not have been more hospitable. They are owned by Sheffield United but they showed no steel. Chelsea scored three in the first half and four in the second, the pick of which was a delightful backheeled flick from substitute Joe Cole, one of two goals for the winger in his first pre-season game. Anelka, Salomon Kalou, Frank Lampard, Argentinian teenager Franco Di Santo and Shaun Wright-Phillips weighed in with goals.

There was occasional slickness in Chelsea’s play, Michael Essien typically shining in two different roles, firstly anchoring the midfield and later at right-back, while Deco and Lampard dovetailed effectively in central midfield without getting in one other’s way. On the down side, Deco made a few rash challenges and would surely have been shown a yellow card in a Premier League fixture.

Scolari was a relaxed presence on the bench, choosing to stay rooted to his seat for the whole game. He clapped the opening two goals, was undemonstrative for the rest and laughed when the seventh crept in via Wright-Phillips’s shoulder.

Pre-season rides do not come much easier than this but Scolari says it was exactly the type of run-out he wanted and that his lineup for the opening Premier League game against Portsmouth on August 16 will be shaped by the considerably tougher fixtures in Moscow on Friday and Sunday.

“Look, for us, this is match training. If I was at Cobham it would make it the same,” he said. “We are here not only to play games but other things and for me it is better because I build my team for the Russian games and after that I have the team for the first game against Portsmouth.”

One player the manager knows very well is Deco, who contributed a full 90-minute shift despite his exertions for Portugal in the summer, evidence perhaps that Scolari wants this key cog in the wheel in prime shape for the start of the league season.

Star man: Joe Cole

Scorers: Chelsea: Anelka 15, Kalou 31, Lampard 38, J Cole 55, 82, Di Santo 66, Wright-Phillips 83

CHENGDU BLADES: Lan Yi, Liu Cheng, Demar, Li Mingyi (Ding Qi 55min), Zhu Xiaogang (Xu Chao 62min), Zhang Chaosong (Yang Zezhi h-t), Li Tie (Peng Xingli 78min), Xia Qiqi (Zhou Peng 55min), Zhou Yougen (Jiang Xiaoyu 82min), Shi Jun (Denilson h-t), Wang Song

CHELSEA: Cech (Hilario 60min), Ferreira (Ivanovic h-t), Alex (Carvalho h-t), Terry (J Cole 53min), A Cole (Bridge h-t), Deco, Essien, Lampard (Mikel h-t), Wright-Phillips, Anelka (Di Santo 60min), Kalou (Malouda h-t)

Gudjohnson: Mourinho The Reason Behind Chelse's Success

Gudjohnson had a successful spell at Chelsea before he moved from the Stamford Bridge to the Spanish Giants.. He was a key part of the Mourinho squad that won two successive premier league titles.. Now the former blue has hailed his former boss n described him the reason behind Chelsea's success..

Gudjohnsen left Stamford Bridge two years ago to join Barcelona after picking up back-to-back Premier League winner’s medals in West London.

He said on Setanta Sports News: “For me the one who stood out was Mourinho. I think the time that I had in Chelsea was excellent.

“Chelsea for me was always a big club, but when Mourinho came, they became a top club."

Mourinho was forced out of Stamford Bridge at the beginning of last season, but has since taken the reins at Italian champions Inter.

And Inter's gain is Chelsea's loss according to Gudjohnsen, who credits Mourinho with turning The Blues expensively assembled squad inito title winners.

“Obviously we won The Premier League twice and achieved a lot of success," he added. "He gave us that extra bit of confidence that we needed.

“If you look at the team that we had before Mourinho, a lot of the players who were already there were in Mourinho’s first team when we won the league.

“I am very grateful to him and he is probably one of the best coaches I have played under so far.”

Ballack is relishing years of service at Chelsea

It is an indication of the high esteem in which Michael Ballack is held by his Chelsea team-mates that the Germany midfield player was applauded on to the pitch before training at the Macau Stadium last night, although the fact that he had just returned from his honeymoon may also have had something to do with it.

After the departure of Claude Makelele to Paris Saint-Germain, Ballack has become Chelsea's senior player, which goes some way towards explaining the strength of his reaction to claims from Sir Alex Ferguson that he is part of an ageing team.

The Manchester United manager is not thought to have had Ballack in mind when he signalled an early start to the silly season from the Barclays Premier League champions' tour to South Africa this week, not least because he went to great lengths to try to sign him from Bayern Munich 2 years ago, but that did not prevent the Germany captain biting back with interest. Ballack insisted that Ferguson's comments should not be taken seriously, identifying them as part of the phoney war before the Premier League campaign begins next month.

“Like we always say, it's not about old or young players,” Ballack said. “It's about good or bad players. Of course this team can still improve. If you're 13 or you're 31, you're not old. Look at Maka [Makelele] last season. I think he was 34 or 35, yet he still played a very good season. That's no age for a footballer.



“I don't think he [Ferguson] was talking about me or any other specific player. I think it's just what happens in the summer break - you tickle each other a little bit. What Ferguson said cannot be taken seriously.”

Ballack is confident that Chelsea can prove his point by striking back at United to regain the title this season. Given the 31-year-old's impressive career, it seems harsh to characterise him as a nearly man, although the fact remains that four German titles, three German Cups and a Carling Cup represent a poor return for a player of his ability. Germany's defeat by Spain in the final of Euro 2008 is just one more disappointment to add to a lengthy list of ones that got away, including two Champions League finals and the 2002 World Cup final.

“We'll be a better team this season,” Ballack said. “I think you saw towards the end of the season we were in very good shape. If the season had gone on two more weeks we could have won the league. We are always competitive. United have had two very good seasons. They won the double last year and it was a fantastic season for them, but we were very close. We were behind them by a millimetre and this time we will try to be the first.”

Much of Ballack's confidence springs from the club's appointment of Luiz Felipe Scolari, whom he met for the first time as his manager yesterday. The pair first met at that World Cup final win for Brazil in Japan six years ago and most recently locked horns in the European Championship quarter-finals in Zurich, where Scolari accused Ballack of pushing Paulo Ferreira to score what turned out to be the winning goal for Germany.

“It was the first question we spoke about, whether I pulled Paulo or not,” Ballack said. “He's a nice person, but it's all different now he's my manager. It's difficult to say too much about him yet because he only talked to us for a few minutes. A lot of people have told me there is a very good atmosphere here with the new coach around the team.”

Ballack's personal life is equally harmonious, which is part of the reason he wishes to extend a contract that has one year to run with an option for a further 12 months, although, unlike Frank Lampard, he is not seeking to force the club's hand. No wonder Ballack is so popular.

Deco: Chelsea better Than Barca

The Brazillian born Portuguese superstar Deco has insisted that Chelsea had immense squad depth n the Quality n the Blues had to be highly-regarded.

He said, "It is hard to compare two different teams, both Barcelona and Chelsea have very good players, but Chelsea have the edge and have a great team spirit.

"I am very glad to join Chelsea and I am happy after being able to link up with Mr Scolari again and together I hope we can do very good things for Chelsea."

"We played very well on Wednesday considering it was our first game, but we did not play that well and we hope to play better on Saturday after being able to train together more," he said after appearing for an hour in China.

"I still have a lot of things to learn, coming to Chelsea is a new challenge for me. We have a strong team and I can learn a lot from them despite being 30."

Pizarro's agent absolutely livid with River rumours

Pizarro's agent claimed earlier today that the move to River Plate was never on the cards. He has insisted that Pizarro wants to prove his worth in the premier league n the move away from the Stamford Bridge is unlikely..

Pizarro’s future at Stamford Bridge has been the subject of debate after he scored just two goals in 21 Premier League appearances following a free transfer move from Bayern Munich last summer.

Real Betis and Paris Saint Germain have both been linked with the Peru international and River president Jose Maria Aguilar recently claimed he was offered the player but Pizarro’s wage demands proved prohibitive.

Now the player’s agent has stated that his client is hoping to stay in West London and that a return to South America is not on the agenda.

"Seven European teams have asked for him and I told them all the truth: Claudio wants to stay at Chelsea and it is pointless to continue talking about a move that will not happen,” Carlos Delgado told Radio Programas Peru.

"However, he has options. Claudio is free to decide. He is fighting for a place in one of the most important clubs in the world, but at the end he will have to take a decision.

"Someone was bored and released that crazy news. Not only because River can't afford Claudio's contract but also because he is not interested in South America at all.

"He has a contract with Chelsea and wants to play in Europe. This idea is as crazy as Universitario or Alianza signing (Hernan) Crespo."

Mikel Gunning For First Team Place

John Obi Mikel is confident he can take over from Claude Makelele in the Chelsea midfield after the Veteran Frenchman signed for the League One Outfit PSG..

But Mikel believes he has enough quality to cement his place in Chelsea's starting lineup.. He has been impressive for Chelsea but has been in and out of the team since he joined the Blues after a controversial Transfer... But despite the presence of Lampard, Ballack n Deco, the Nigerian Rising star believes he can fit into the Stamford Bridge setup n be an important figure in the Star studded Blues midfield..

'I played that role sometimes last season and hopefully I'll have a long run in the team now," he said.

'It's something I've wanted - a run in the team - and I suppose Claude's departure has opened up that door for me, but I was playing in that role when I was in the team last season too.

'I was in and out of the team last season, but when I was given a chance under (former manager Jose) Mourinho before, I actually did okay in that holding role. I think I did very well under Mourinho and was playing regularly.

'Of course, when a new manager comes in everyone has to start afresh and roll up their sleeves. In Avram Grant's time I was in and out of the side, and that was a bit frustrating, but it's what happens in football.

'This time, under the new boss, I will try to make it my position in the team each week.'



Last season Mikel continued to mature in the Chelsea midfield and actually made more appearances than Makelele - possibly a factor in the decision to release the 35-year-old Frenchman for a swansong in Paris.

With a spot now lying vacant in the Chelsea midfield, it is up to Mikel to impress Scolari and win a starting berth in time for the Barclays Premier League opener against Portsmouth on August 17, and then more importantly hold on to the role.

'I'm loving playing under the new manager, even if it's largely been in training so far, but we'll see what happens when the season proper starts. We'll see how it goes,' said Mikel.

'I think he's a good man. From what I've seen, he's got a good character and speaks to his players regularly, asking how we feel and, if we have a problem, how he can help us in any way. He's impressive.

'Overall I think he's a good manager, bringing a lot of good things into the team. Obviously, he's already shown that he wants us to play a lot of different systems and formations. We've been used to 4-3-3 in recent seasons and hopefully, at times, we'll still play that way.

'But the manager is versatile and has shown he wants us to be able to adapt as well. We're all looking forward to playing under him.'

Pizarro? River Says No To Peruvian Ace

Chelsea offered Claudio Pizarro to River Plate but they Turned down the chance to sign the Chelsea outcast.. Pizarro had a dismal first season at Stamford Bridge as he had an unproductive season.. He was demoted to first star studded bench and later to the West Londoner's reserves team..

River president Jose Maria Aguilar claims he was informed that Pizarro - who is a target of Real Betis - was available prior to the beginning of the fresh campaign.



Pizarro has failed to impress at Stamford Bridge after moving to England on a free transfer from Bayern Munich in 2007 and it is understood Chelsea are looking to offload the Peru international striker.

However, Aguilar says River would have been unable to meet Pizarro's wage demands, reported to be in the region of £2.5million-per-year.

"We have had an informal chat only. We are offered a hundred players," said Aguilar.

"Pizarro is a first-class footballer who plays at one of the most powerful, most important clubs in the world.


"Right now, there is no real chance (to sign Pizarro)."

Deco believes in Phil ''The Power' Scolari

Chelsea's most hyped signing of this summer has admired his Chelsea coach by stating that he's a great coach n Blues ll win a lot under his management.. Deco was key member of Scolari's Portugal setup n the duo had a formidable relationship for half a decade..

Deco said, "Scolari's a great coach. Not only is he always trying to set new standards tactically, but he also shows a lot of respect to his players,"

"You know what's what with him - he's not two-faced.

"He is demanding but he also accepts that players see things on the field that should be changed. You can just ahead and do it, as long as it's for the team's sake.





"He'll do fine in the Premier League. There won't be any language barrier - he speaks the language of football. He likes exciting play with a bit of aggression.

"Everyone will adore him," he added. "Both Mourinho and Scolari are strong personalities. Mourinho is more of a 'provocateur'. But you should not compare them. Let Scolari do his job and judge him for that.", he concluded.

Chelsea Close In On Robinho

According to reports in the Spanish Media, Robinho has turned down a new contract offer, increasing the possibilities that Blues might be in a strong position to sign the tricky winger..

Scolari said: 'Robinho is a great player, he plays for one of the best teams in the world and for the national team.'

Chief executive Peter Kenyon reiterated that talks are still taking place with Madrid but insists it won't be a problem if they fail to buy him.

He added: 'If we can get him he will add to the talent we've got. But if not, the objectives at Chelsea won't change.'



Meanwhile, Scolari insists his reign at Chelsea will be completely different to that of Jose Mourinho, who took the club to two Premier League titles in 2005 and 2006.

'My name is Luiz Felipe Scolari, not Jose Mourinho,' he said.

'I follow my way and not any other way. I tell my players we need to win, only this.'

Michael Ballack is set to rejoin the squad after being on honeymoon, but the German will not face Chengdu Blades on Saturday.

Scolari hails Chelsea's young general Franco and says rising star shows future is bright

Chelsea's young rising star Franco Di Santo scored on his debut showing why Chelsea paid 3.5 million pounds for the Argentine young gun... He impressed the Stamford Bridge hirearchy by scoring the team's third goal of the evening and was an ever presence after coming on in the second half..

Scolari praised the Argentine n said, 'It's important for us to put some young players in the team. Di Santo scored one goal which is good for us and it's good for him that he played in this match. He will grow as a player and we can continue to build for the future of the team for the next 11, 15, 20 years.'


Franco di 'Santa' impresses Phil 'The Power' Scolari!!!

Such is the impact Di Santo has made in just six months at the club he is expected to play a significant role in the forthcoming season as one of the back-up strikers.

He starred for the reserve team in the second half of the last campaign by scoring seven goals in eight games and finished as their top scorer.