Chelsea FC

John Terry acused of racist comments against Anton Ferdinand

2011-10-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

There was a problem between John Terry and Anton Ferdinand during the Chelsea v. Queens Park Rangers match. Now the veteran defender has been acused of racial abuse against Ferdinand.

Terry himself denied the version and stated that right after the game, he and Ferdinand talked for about ten minutes and solved the problem.

Andre Villas-Boas said that "it was a big misunderstanding, and people should trust in someone who represents our country in top international competitions". These words actually created more criticism in England, and even the FA demanded an explanation to Villas-Boas.

Champions League: Chelsea in the same group with Valencia, Leverkusen and Genk

2011-08-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

The 2011/2012 Champions League has begun with the traditional draw, this time in Monaco. And Chelsea ended up in a really tough Group with Spanish Valencia, German club Bayern Leverkusen and Genk from Belgium.

The first game for the "Blues" will be on September 13 against Bayern Leverkusen in London. The second match will be against Valencia on September 28 in Spain.

Chelsea fans hope this will be the season when they can finally win the Champions League trophy. With new players like Juan Mata and Romelu Lukaku adding great football to their powerful squad, they have a great chance this time.

Fernando Torres' first goal with Chelsea, a relief for everybody

2011-04-25T02:57:00.000-07:00

Spanish striker Fernando Torres finally scored his first goal at Chelsea, and ended 902 minutes with no goals - including his last games at Liverpool and his games with the Spanish National Team.

Chelsea defeated West Ham United 3-0 and reached the second spot of the Premier League, but the most important thing of the game was Torres scoring goals again. The talented footballer said that "it's a great releaf, and now a have a little less pressure to face each game in the future."

"I had to wait 14 games with Chelsea to score the first goal. I just didn't see that coming, so I have to thank my team-mates for their constant support" said Torres.

Chelsea closer to Arsenal after 1-3 win over West Bromwich

2011-04-17T01:08:00.000-07:00

Ancelotti's men are decided to fight until the end. Chelsea got an important 1-3 win as visitors over West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns Stadium on Saturday.

West Bromwich scored the first goal by Peter Odemwingie, but Chelsea reacted thanks to Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Frank Lampard.

Spanish star Fernando Torres entered in the second half, but he still cannot score his first goal with the Blues, a fact that now is called the "Torres curse".

Chelsea remains in the third position of the Premier League, one point behind Arsenal and eight behind Manchester United.

After short win over Wigan, Ancelotti focuses in Champions League

2011-04-10T01:27:00.000-07:00

Chelsea's 1-0 win over Wigan was not a good game for Carlo Ancelotti's squad and the coach is aware of the lack of good football in his team. The next rival, Manchester United, will not be as easy as Wigan, and Ancelotti already warned his players: "We must improve to advance".

Manchester United's number in Champions League are far superior compared with Chelsea, but Ancelotti is convinced that among his players there is enough talent to make history at the Old Trafford.

"We are not converting goals. That's why we suffered so much against Wigan. But that's normal in football. If we are at our 100%, we can beat United" said the coach.

Chelsea, Juventus and Barcelona are after Brazilian rising star Neymar

2011-04-09T10:27:00.000-07:00

Neymar proved to be the newest sensation in South American football. The Brazilian striker had an excellent performance this season with Santos as well as with the Brazilian National Team. That's why many powerful european clubs are after him.

The 19-year-old footballer is the objective of Carlo Ancelotti, but Chelsea must make a bigger offer, since Barcelona and Juventus are willing to pay even 34 million euros for him.

However, some newspapers in Brazil suggest that Santos has no intention of selling Neymar, since they want him to be the best player in the world while playing at that club. But we all know that money can change many things.

Malouda rescued a 1-0 win for Chelsea over Wigan

2011-04-09T10:21:00.000-07:00

Chelsea defeated Wigan 1-0 in the Premier League with a late goal scored by Florent Malouda, but the sensation is that the blue team cannot achieve victories easy enough to chase Manchester United in the tournament.

In fact, Wigan was the dominating side in the first half. Only Drogba and Torres managed to create some dangerous strikes for Chelsea.

The goal was result of a confuse move in Wigan's area, but it was enough for Chelsea to keep three points in their bag. As for Fernando Torres, he completed a good game but he could not score yet.

Chelsea vs. Everton: Drogba returns to the squad

2011-02-18T08:04:00.000-08:00

Didier Drogba was designated by Carlo Ancelotti to be part of the starting team against Everton, in the FA Cup.

Coach Ancelotti was eager to give Fernando Torres as many minutes as possible, but he is not eligible for this match.

Even though Drogba is 33 now and the board is probably thinking about Torres becoming their most important strikers for the next years, the African star will prove that he is still a goal-scoring machine.

Ancelotti aims to win Premier League and FA Cup

2010-03-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti is not happy with Chelsea elimination in the Champions League, but he knows that there are still posibilities to celebrate this season: the Premier League and FA Cup.

Indeed, the Blues are only two points off the pace at the top of the Premier and are through to the final four in the prestigious FA Cup. Said that, Ancelotti is convinced that his footballers can win both titles.

The coach said that Chelsea's destiny "is in our own hands. If we win every match, we can do the double. That's our aim."

Chelsea eliminated from the Champions League by Inter Milan

2010-03-16T21:26:00.000-07:00

It was Drogba vs. Eto'o. It was Mourinho against Chelsea. In the end, Inter Milan got a 1 - 0 win over the Blues and kick them out of the Champions League. However, the qualification, achieved by a 3-1 aggregate score after the Italian team had won the first leg, 2-1, was not that satisfying for Jose Mourinho. He was manager of a legendary squad of Chelsea and this was his first time facing his old home.

"Today I was the enemy, and today the enemy won," the Portuguese coach expressed.

Cameroon star Samuel Eto'o netted in the 78th minute to destroy the Blues' 21-game home unbeaten streak in the UEFA Champions League.

Inter booked a place in the next stage. And in Stamford Bridge, we will have to wait for the next season of the Champions League to see Chelsea finally winning the long expected crown of Europe.

Brazilian Zico: Luiz Felipe Scolari should have more time at London

2009-02-18T21:38:00.000-08:00

The popular and super talented Zico stated that he is against Chelsea for dismissing Luiz Felipe Scolari prematurely.

In fact, the CSKA Moscow coach, whose side played Aston Villa for the UEFA Cup this evening, believes that the man who led Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002 — sacked last week after only seven months — should have been judged at the end of the season.

“People seem to think the role of the coach in Brazilian football is less important because, it seems, they just have to turn up and the footballers victory the World Cup,” Zico, who appeared in the 1978, 1982 and 1986 finals, expressed. “So it is a problem for Brazilian coaches because they do not get time to have an effect on the way a side plays to get the results they want.

“Felipao had lost some games, however he did not lost a championship. We must consider that a reasonable time would have been at the end of this season.”

Back to Chelsea young players: Hiddink to lineup Michael Mancienne

2009-02-18T21:34:00.000-08:00

A talent from the young division in Chelsea, Michael Mancienne, is poised to make his first Premier League start for the Stamford Bridge institution in their vital fixture against Aston Villa after Guus Hiddink oversaw his first training sessions at Cobham.

In fact, injuries to Portuguese Carvalho and Alex, as well as a suspension for Ashley Cole, see Hiddink faced with something of a defensive crisis in his first week in charge after replacing Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Mancienne, notionally a central defender, filled in manfully at right back during Chelsea’s FA Cup victory over Watford last weekend that Hiddink watched from the stands with owner Roman Abramovich.

Indeed, Hiddink, a meticulous coach, has reviewed the weekend’s opposition, who sit above Chelsea in the Premier League table, and is concerned by the need to counter the pace of Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor.

It seemMancienne’s speed is seen as a greater asset than his inexperience is a concern.

The popular Hiddink has already watched a youth side encounter and is believed to have been impressed with Mancienne in the training sessions he has conducted at Cobham this week.

"It is amazing for me having the experience of seeing the second side as well and seeing if we first see a amazing performances of the side and second if they're some young footballers who might be very interesting for the future," expressed Hiddink after watching the youth side put six past Portsmouth.

"I think that even if you are a big team, and even if the first side is settled you must always create some space for youngsters, they are always promising and that is why we always have to keep an eye on them."

We must consider that Mancienne, who was called in to the experienced Fabio Capello’s England squad for the friendly victory against Germany in Berlin last year, though remained and unused substitute, was paired with John Terry in an open training session.

The England captain has been immediately impressed with Hiddink and is relishing the opportunity to reignite a difficult season for Chelsea.

“He’s made a few changes and in training he got us to press more and play higher up the pitch,” expressed John Terry.

“I must admit, it looked sharp, with everyone fighting for their places again.”

Chelsea’s defensive record this season stands up against most of their nearest rivals and in despite of that, the last few weeks has seen an alarming dip in form with even stalwarts like Terry and Cech coming in for criticism.

As we said, Mancienne, who has spent impressive spells with Wolves in recent seasons, may well prove to be the beneficiary of that and Hiddink’s fresh start at the team.

We should review the new generation at Stamford Bridge:

Miroslav Stoch - Gave a glimpse of his quality against Stoke City and has become increasingly involved with first-team squad - particularly noted for his pace.

Michael Mancienne - Came to prominence when he was called up to Fabio Capello's England squad and played against Watford in Chelsea's FA Cup victory.

Franco Di Santo - Argentina Under-20 international who impressed during pre-season and has made several first-team appearances.

Scott Sinclair - Made Chelsea league debut in 2007, and in despite of that, is currently on loan with Birmingham until the end of the season.

Frank Nouble – This talented player has been with Chelsea since an under-12 and has been capped by England under-17s.

Jeffrey Bruma - Centre-back from Holland, who plays for the Dutch under-17s and has trained with the first-team.

Jack Cork - The son of Alan Cork has steadily won admirers while on loan with Bournemouth, Scunthorpe, Southampton and Watford, and in despite of that, is increasingly making his mark for the England under-21s.

Jacob Mellis - Signed in the summer of 2007 and a member of the England under-19 division.

Ricardo Quaresma for Didier Drogba: perfect deal?

2009-02-06T00:17:00.001-08:00

According to a report in a British newspaper, Inter are hoping to take Chelsea's Didier Drogba to Milan at the end of the season.

Apparently, Nerazzurri head team boss Jose Mourinho is extremely eager to be reunited with the Ivory Coast striker and will offer Portuguese international winger Ricardo Quaresma in exchange.

Drogba excelled under Mourinho's management of the Blues, scoring 16 goals in 2004/05 and 2005/06, and an incredible 33 in the 2006/07 campaign.

Since the 'Special One' departed Stamford Bridge in September 2007, the Ivory Coast striker has struggled to find the same form.

This season he has played only 20 encounters, scoring just three goals, while Nicolas Anelka has made 32 appearances, finding the back of the net on 17 occasions.

It is claimed that the 30-year-old has also fallen out with current manager Luiz Felipe Scolari, so should Quaresma impress for the remainder of the season a swap deal may not be out of the question.

Talented Frank Lampard On Ref After Red Card Reprieve

2009-02-06T00:13:00.000-08:00

Chelsea talented footballer Franky Lampard was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Xabi Alonso on the hour mark during the Blues' 2-0 loss at the hands of Liverpool on Sunday.

The defeat was a massive blow in terms of the Premier League title race, but Lampard was handed a boost yesterday at the time the FA overturned his sending off, thus sparing him a three-match ban.

Lampard slid in on Alonso and the Spaniard was sent flying, but it was clear even without the aid of video replays that England star Lampard had got a large chunk of the ball.

Now able to look ahead to ahead to the weekend visit of Hull City, Lampard spoke to the Press Association of the red card, which was dished out by referee Mike Riley. "It's great that I can move on, but a shame that we lost the game because of it," he bemoaned.

"I presumed it would be rescinded anyway so I was quite confident about that.

"It was obviously a mistake, we all make mistakes. soccer players make mistakes just as much as anyone - and the referee did."

Under-fire Riley will not be in action this weekend, it has been revealed, after sustaining an undisclosed injury during the Liverpool win.

He and his assistants have also come under fire over Jose Bosingwa's kicking antics, but the full-back cannot be punished retroactively as the linesman saw the incident at the time.

Felipe Scolari: we must win over Bordeaux to continue in the Champions League

2008-11-25T11:13:00.000-08:00

Chelsea Portuguese boss Luis Felipe Scolari underlined the importance of beating Bordeaux on Wednesday to seal their seventh straight appearance in the Champions League knockout stages with a game to spare.

The charismatic Brazilian proffesor knows last season's beaten finalists came unstuck in their last away game at italian AS Roma when they were thumped 3-1 and is not taking the French outsiders lightly.

"We really need to qualify either tomorrow or against Cluj and reach the second round," he told a press conference here Tuesday.

"As we know, we had a chance against Roma and now we have a second chance. Myself and the players cannot wait for more chances and tomorrow (Wednesday) is the day."

The 60-year-old played down the defeat in Italy and says the group is still wide open with just a one point lead on Roma and Bordeaux with Cluj still in the hunt three points adrift.

"The clash against Roma was a time when they were in crisis and it was a game that if they lost they were out of the competition. They played better than us 100 per cent.

"Look, what I know about French Bordeaux is that they have very good players and the result in the first match was not a normal result.

"I know they are in fifth or sixth in France and they didn't start the competition very well but they have played well since and we respect this team and more. They have six points and we have only seven so there is no difference."

In fact, the Girondins have been hit by the late withdrawal of first choice goalkeeper Ulrich Rame who failed to recover from a hamstring injury which means the gloves will be handed to 25-year-old Matthieu Valverde.

We must mention that Bordeaux are coming off back to back victories over Romanian newcomers CFR Cluj which has lifted them back into contention for a spot in the final 16 but have never beaten English opposition at home in European play.

They were beaten by powerful Manchester United 2-1 in the 1999-2000 Champions League group phase and also lost 1-0 to Liverpool in the 2006-07 pool stage as well.

Their only point at home in European action came way back in the first round of the 1997-98 UEFA Cup first round when they battled Aston Villa to a 1-1 stalemate.

Scolari also made it clear his squad are not thinking about Sunday's showdown with Arsenal in a top of the table Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge and says qualification is crucial and not especially winning the group.

"Myself and the players will not think about Arsenal FC until after the game tomorrow. If we start thinking about Arsenal, we might lose tomorrow.

"In fact, if we have the second leg in the Champions League at home in the next round that it's great but there are two things.

"In the past teams have won the second leg away from home and other times the home team has won but there is not a big difference. The most important thing is to qualify."

In-form French forward Nicolas Anelka hopes to carry his hot touch in the Premier League onto the European stage where he has been misfiring so far in the competition.

"I may be need a bit of luck but the important thing is that we get the win and that the team pick up the three points or at least a draw," said the French forward.

"I know that the match tomorrow will be a lot different from the first match at Stamford Bridge (Chelsea won 4-0) and we are expecting a very tough encounter."

Didier Drogba talks with Inter Milan

2008-11-25T11:05:00.000-08:00

Explosive forward Didier Drogba's Chelsea future has become surrounded in doubt, with the Blues striker understood to have held discussions with officials at Serie A club Inter Milan, according to a news website.

The popular Drogba is understood to have met with Nerazzurri coach Jose Mourinho’s agent Jorge Mendes and Marco Branca the technical director at the San Siro along with his powerful agent Pierre Frelot at a restaurant in West London.

As we know, former Stamford Bridge manager Mourinho was a huge influence on Drogba, while at Chelsea and had been heavily linked with a move to bring the former Marseille striker to Inter in the summer. However, Drogba, who is currently serving a three-match ban for throwing a coin in the Carling Cup defeat to Burnley, remained at the Premier League side.

Jose Mourinho has an abundance of striker’s at the San Siro, with Hernan Crespo, Adriano, Mario Balotelli, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Julio Cruz and Victor Obinna all fighting for a starting berth upfront for Inter. Despite this Mourinho is expected to offload brazilian Adriano in January, with Balotelli a reported target for Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea, while Crespo never made the grade under Mourinho at the Blues.

We must notice that young striker Obinna had been heavily linked with a loan move to Everton in the summer, but this didn’t materialise due to work permit problems and this deal could be resurrected in January, which if as Mourinho has stated recently that some forward’s will leave Inter in January then the path would be clear for Inter to sign Didier Drogba, who would be keen on a reunion with his former boss.

Chelsea 2008/2009 Squad

2008-11-25T10:57:00.000-08:00

1 GK Petr Čech
2 DF Branislav Ivanović
3 DF Ashley Cole
5 MF Michael Essien
6 DF Ricardo Carvalho
8 MF Frank Lampard (vice-captain)
9 FW Franco di Santo
10 MF Joe Cole
11 FW Didier Drogba
12 MF John Mikel Obi
13 MF Michael Ballack
15 MF Florent Malouda
16 FW Scott Sinclair
17 DF José Bosingwa
18 DF Wayne Bridge
19 DF Paulo Ferreira
20 MF Deco
21 FW Salomon Kalou
23 GK Carlo Cudicini
26 DF John Terry (captain)
27 MF Mineiro
33 DF Alex
35 MF Juliano Belletti
39 FW Nicolas Anelka
40 GK Henrique Hilário
43 FW Miroslav Stoch
44 MF Michael Woods

Deco admits Chelsea offer

2008-06-22T15:38:00.001-07:00

Portuguese star Deco broke his silence last night to admit that Chelsea are openly pursuing him.

But the talented player insisted that nothing will be finalised until he has met Barcelona officials.

"I already knew about the interest from Chelsea, and other teams. I still need to speak to FC Barcelona," said Deco.

"However, I am going to have news. I knew that Barcelona wanted rid of me, Ronaldinho and Samuel Eto'o. I have to respect the decision, move on and think about my own career."

Close to heaven: Chelsea reach the Champions League Final with a 3 - 2 win over Liverpool

2008-05-01T10:07:00.000-07:00

Historical night for every blue fan, player, board member and supporters around the world. After many years of struggling, Chelsea reached the Champions League Final for the first time in history.

What's more, it will be the first European Cup final between two English clubs, and beating Manchester United to win the title will make it even more special.

Owner Roman Abramovich wasn't at Stamford Bridge to see his expensively assembled team beat Liverpool 3-2 in extra time to advance to the final on May 21, but United manager Alex Ferguson was.

Manchester United and Chelsea are also neck-and-neck in the Premier League. The Blues beat the Red Devils 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday to draw level on points with United, which leads on goal difference with two encounters to go.

"An all-English final. I think everyone's looking forward to it," Chelsea leader John Terry said. "They have been very good in the league. Also we matched them the other week and managed to defeat them here. All in all, they're playing very well. I think we're at the top of our game so in three weeks time it's going to be a very tough game."

It's important to notice that even though it's the first time two English teams have made it to the final, there are no English coaches.

The last Englishman to lead a team to a European Cup triumph was Liverpool's Joe Fagan in 1984. That was at a time when English coaches did well in the competition with seven triumphs in eight seasons, including victories from Liverpool's Bob Paisley (three), Nottingham Forest's Brian Clough (two), Aston Villa's Tony Barton and Fagan between 1977 and '84.

Manchester United has had the veteran Ferguson in charge for 22 years, and the Scot has led the Red Devils to nine Premier League triumphs and five FA Cups and is now chasing his second Champions League title to go with the one he won in 1999.

As for Avram Grant, he is the former coach of Israel who has led Chelsea to its first Champions League final after the man he replaced, Jose Mourinho, failed three times. Mourinho moved to Stamford Bridge in June 2004, a month after leading FC Porto to a triumph in the competition.

And although he won two league titles in a row, Chelsea's first in half a century, portuguese Mourinho couldn't capture a European success and the club replaced him in September. Now, the fact that two English teams are playing each other thousands of miles away in Moscow for a major prize is good timing.

Now talking about the semifinal match, we can say it was one of the most exciting games of the year. Didier Drogba scored the first goal that seemed to assure their ticket to the final. But Fernando Torres kept the emotion alive up to the 90th minute.

In the extra time, the referee downed a goal scored by Kalou, but just two minutes later a penalty shot was converted by Frank Lampard. His celebration is now inprinted in the memory of every blue fan.

Drogba appeared again to score the third one, to unleash the emotion of every Chelsea supporter. Babel scored a goal for Liverpool, but that was not enough to save his team.

Now Chelsea will face Manchester United knowing all about Cristiano Ronaldo's dribbling and shooting skills and how to stop him from adding to his 38 league and cup goals this season. It also has to break open the solid defensive partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

Because it played Chelsea on Saturday, Manchester United is aware of the dangers posed by Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and Michael Ballack and the defensive strengths of Terry and Ricardo Carvalho.

Ferguson's team has a 65-41 record against Chelsea with 44 draws. But the last time they met in a final, Chelsea edged Man. United 1-0 in last season's FA Cup at Wembley.

Carvalho confident in Chelsea title chances

2008-04-18T23:27:00.000-07:00

Talented defender Ricardo Carvalho has issued a defiant message to Liverpool and Manchester United before a decisive week for the London club by declaring that belief remains strong at Stamford Bridge that they can earn the Premier League and Champions League titles.

In fact, Chelsea's 1-0 win over Everton on Thursday closed the gap on Premier League leaders United to two points. It ensures that Sir Alex Ferguson's team will travel to Blackburn for their game in hand today aware that anything but three will allow the Blues to claim a share of top spot by defeating them at Stamford Bridge Stadium on April 26.

Before that, Chelsea play the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against the poweful Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday, and Portuguese defender Carvalho insists that Avram Grant's squad are fully capable of ending the week with two victories.

As we said, Carvalho expressed: "It was a very important win at Everton, especially after the draw against Wigan. We knew we couldn't make a mistake, that we had to win.

"I'm sure that the title is still possible. Blackburn away is always a difficult game, so hopefully United can drop points. It's going to be difficult and it depends on United, but let's see. We have to win all our encounters, but we will never give up. We hope they can lose points and we can keep winning."

The memory of two defeats in three seasons against the terrible Liverpool at the same stage of the Champions League has galvanised the Chelsea footballers. Carvalho added: "We lost on penalties the last time and in the previous semi-final to a goal that nobody saw cross the line. It was really hard to take" Carvalho admitted.

Claudio Pizarro might face international ban

2008-04-18T23:21:00.000-07:00

Peruvian Football Federation sanctioned four players after an alcohol scandal during the South Africa 2010 qualifiers. And even though Claudio Pizarro is one of the punished players, he has denied any participation in the incident.

Claudio Pizarro, whose career as a Chelsea striker is coming to a close, was said to be involved in the events and was suspended from playing for the peruvian national selection as well as fined $20,000.

In response, the former captain of stated that Peru's Football Federation (FPF) was not being run well and that Manuel Burga was at its head. The forward affirmed that someone was out to get him and he would find out who, stating that the federation's lack of effective management would soon come to light.

"That's totally false," said Burga in an interview on a local radio. "I've known a lot of the players since they played U-17. There isn't anything against anyone," affirmed the president of the federation.

When told about the player's plans to take the federation to court, Burga assured that if this was done, Claudio Pizarro's case would be taken to the FIFA. The head of the FPF assured that this meant the Chelsea striker would be exposed to international banning.

In fact, Pizarro could be banned from playing for clubs in the same way he was banned from playing for the national team.

Gianfranco Zola might return as Chelsea coach

2008-03-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

Italian talented player Gianfranco Zola expressed that he would like to return to Chelsea in the future to work in either a coaching or managerial capacity.

Indeed, Zola was one of the most popular foreign players to appear in the Premier League as he scored 80 goals for Chelsea in a dazzling seven-year career at Stamford Bridge between 1996 and 2003. Just before he left the club Chelsea fans voted him as the best footballer in the club's history.

Zola stated in an interview on Friday that although he was currently coaching the Italian Under-21s with Pierluigi Casiraghi, he could see a future back at Stamford Bridge.

"Will I come back to Chelsea? We'll see. I think so. In fact, sooner or later I'll have a go. But at the moment it is important to get the knowledge. Playing football is one thing, but coaching is another one, completely different."

However, London seems irresistible for him. "Chelsea is where I had the best satisfaction of all, where I was treated the best. This is a special place," he claims.

"I do care about Chelsea very much and when I do come back I want to do something very valuable."

We must say that Zola was also linked with a position at the English FA, working with coach Fabio Capello's backroom staff, but he said he was not approached for a role.

"I read that in the news myself several times but I didn't speak to Capello or anyone else," he admitted. "I was very pleased (if) they were considering me but I have a commitment with the national team in Italy, a two-year contract."

As we know, Gianfranco Zola also played for Napoli, Parma and Cagliari among other sides, and won 35 caps for Italy national team.

Chelsea Kit: Season 2007/2008

2008-03-22T20:59:00.001-07:00

These are the models for the new Adidas Chelsea jersey for the current season. Simply beautiful:

Video: Top 10 Chelsea goals for 2006/2007 season

2008-03-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

Enjoy:

Enjoy these amazing Chelsea FC Wallpapers!

2008-03-21T22:25:00.001-07:00

Choose your best blue desktop wallpaper, then click on it to expand the image. Finally, save the image to your computer.

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2008-03-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

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Lampard avoids red card ban

2008-03-05T01:25:00.000-08:00

Surprisingly, Chelsea player Frank Lampard avoided Tuesday a three-game ban. Indeed, the Football Association (FA) overturned the red card the England international received when he was sent-off in the 4-0 victory away to West Ham last weekend.

The talented yet polemic Lampard, who'd opened the scoring against his old club at Upton Park, was sent-off following a clash with Luis Boa Morte.

However, referee Peter Walton told an FA regulatory commission he and his assistant made a mistake.

that's why the commission had to decide if the officials had made a "serious and obvious" error in dismissing the 29-year-old. The same commission also had to take into account the UEFA guideline that while endangering an opponent warrants a red card, contact on or above the neck is deemed to be violent conduct.

So, Lampard's reprieve allows him to play against Barnsley in the FA Cup and the Premier League games against Derby and Sunderland.

In fact, by appealing Chelsea risked Lampard's ban being extended to four games had the verdict gone against the Stamford Bridge club.

We must remember that the same situation happened to Middlesbrough's Jeremie Aliadiere last week when a disciplinary panel rejected what they said was a "frivolous" appeal against a red card.

But correct Tuesday's ruling may be under the rules, it is bound to fuel the suspicion expressed by Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb that there is one rule for 'big' clubs such as Chelsea FC and another for the rest of the teams.

By the way, Chelsea's next match sees them up against Olympiakos in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday.

Chelsea got a great debut as they defeated Birmingham City

2007-08-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

Current champions Chelsea enjoyed a winning start to the season this weekend, and new players Florent Malouda and Claudio Pizarro proved to be in shape and ready to score again. The French striker and the Peruvian forward were on the scoresheet as The Blues edged out a resilient Birmingham City squad 3-2.

The talented Malouda netted after Lampard put him through, the former Lyon player lifting the ball beyond Doyle and into the City net. The winger was pleased to have helped his side make a solid start to this season.

“I can say that the team showed good spirit on the pitch and we are very happy to start the season with a triumph here at Stamford Bridge,” he admitted.

And we must consider that the goal was his second in as many weeks after bravely hitting home Chelsea’s normal time equaliser in the Community Shield. The French player got clattered by United keeper van der Saar in the process, and was a doubt for the Birmingham clash, but he is happy to have made it.

“Last week with the goalkeeper I couldn’t continue the match but this time I played on and I’m very happy,” said Malouda.

Peruvian striker Claudio Pizarro, a free transfer from Bayern Munich this summer also scored, thanks to a lovely run from man-of-the-match Shaun Wright-Phillips, who earned the frontman some space in the middle.

“I’m really happy after the game, it’s very important to win three points. I think we play very good football, and in the next game I hope we play like this,” the southamerican player expressed

“Of course there is a lot of competition and that’s normal because we are playing a lot of competitions here. We are all after the chance to participate,” Pizarro stated.

Painful week for Frank Lampard

2007-03-28T22:49:00.000-07:00

One of the most important Chelsea stars, Frank Lampard, has broken a bone in his wrist while on England duty this week.

According to the official version, Lampard was set to play in Wednesday's Euro 2008 qualifier against Andorra but suffered a cracked bone and possible ligament damage in a training session on Monday.

At first, Frank Lampard was set to feature with his hand protected until it was discovered the injury is far worse than was first thought.

It's possible that the damage was done after the 29-year-old got in the way of a Wayne Rooney shot.

Lampard's injury is the last thing Chelsea need with just eight games to go to obliterate Manchester United's six-point lead at the top of the English Premiership.

We must remember that Lampard is rated doubtful for Saturday's trip to Watford though the club are expected to explore the chances of him playing at Vicarage Road with a cast.

The Carling Cup is Blue

2007-02-25T20:51:00.000-08:00

Chelsea finally got the League Cup Title after beating Arsenal 2-1 on Sunday. Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba netted the two winning goals and helped his team win the Cup. However, the day was not perfect because of a frightening head injury to captain John Terry.

The brave Terry, also the captain of the English national team, was taken off the field on a stretcher after Arsenal player Abou Diaby accidentally kicked him in the head in the 58th minute.

Didier Drogba headed in the winning goal at Millennium Stadium in the 84th minute from a cross from Dutch forward Arjen Robben. He also scored in the 20th, eight minutes after Theo Walcott had given the Gunners a 1-0 lead.

Indeed, Terry was attempting to head a corner from Robben when Diaby went for the ball with his foot. The defender then fell and appeared unconscious. Players from both squads immediately called for medical assistance.

It's important to say that the Chelsea defender was put on a stretcher with an oxygen mask placed over his mouth and a brace around his head. The game was halted for six minutes before Terry was carried off.

"On the stretcher, I gave him just some words, and the way he reacts with his hands, I understood that he was completely conscious," Jose Mourinho admitted. "He remembers everything in the clash. He's fine."

We must consider that John Terry recently recovered from back and calf muscle injuries that sidelined him for 13 games, and then went down with ankle ligament damage in Wednesday's 1-1 UEFA Champions League tie at FC Porto.

Furthermore, Walcott gave Arsenal the lead after exchanging passes with Diaby and sending a rising shot into the far corner. Drogba leveled when he took a pass from midfielder Michael Ballack and beat Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.

In the more than 10 minutes of injury time, footballers on both sides brawled. John Obi Mikel, who replaced Terry, was sent off along with Arsenal defender Kolo Toure. African striker Emmanuel Adebayor was then also sent off before play restarted. Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard and Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas drew yellow cards.

"Perhaps it was a consequence of some frustration in the last part of the game and some boys, they lost a little bit their emotion," Mourinho expressed.

The Gunners used an inexperienced second team _ with Thierry Henry, Jens Lehmann, Gilberto and Tomas Rosicky not even in the lineup. In the other hand, Chelsea used the same lineup that started at FC Porto.

Frank Lampard could leave Chelsea

2007-02-09T15:00:00.000-08:00

In the last hours, we have heard many rumours about Frank Lampard's future at Chelsea. In fact, the England player's agent said he was not certain if the midfielder would still be at Stamford Bridge next season.

We must consider that Frank Lampard, whose girlfriend is Spanish, has been linked with reigning European champions Barcelona some time ago, and his move could be the surprise of the season.

The talented midfielde still has two years remaining on his contract with Abramovich's club, who have been looking to tie him down to a longer deal.

And despite that, Lampard's agent Steve Kutner has been quoted as saying: "Frank Lampard is a Chelsea player until the end of the season. From then, we have just not decided anything yet. Who knows what can happen?"

"Well, right now he is concentrating on one thing and that is playing for Chelsea. It's still too early to say where he will go if he leaves this team."

Win over Blackburn turned sad with Cole injury

2007-01-31T20:50:00.000-08:00

Mourinho's team kept pace with leaders Manchester United with a 3-0 victory over Blackburn but their defensive resources were hit once more when Ashley Cole was stretchered off in agony with a bad knee injury.

Indeed, the British footballer was chasing a ball towards the left touchline in the 58th minute at Stamford Bridge when his left knee appeared to buckle beneath him and he fell to the turf with no other footballer in sight.

Ashley Cole was just beginning to find form for the first time since his controversial transfer from Arsenal FC last season.

We must mention that coach Jose Mourinho was also just preparing to welcome back captain and central defender John Terry after a month on the sidelines. Chelsea have also suffered recent injuries to Terry's centreback partner Ricardo Carvalho and winger Joe Cole.

The Porutguese manager will make noises that his squad will not be able to cope with another loss, but Wayne Bridge appears set to have a spell in which to prove himself as more than just an able deputy to his long-time England rival.

Furthermore, it was perhaps too much for Chelsea to hope that a victory would help them cut into Manchester United's six-point lead, but the Blues did at least manage to record another dull but effective triumph against mid-table opposition.

Once again, it was a really bad night for Andriy Shevchenko, who missed three good chances to score, but Didier Drogba maintained his remarkable consistency with another goal which saw him increase his tally to 23 in all competitions.

We must mention that in the sixth minute Frank Lampard picked up a loose ball in the centre circle and released Drogba with a perfectly weighted pass. The former Marseille striker outpaced Stephane Henchoz and put the ball wide of Brad Friedel and inside the far post for the opener.

Blackburn coach Mark Hughes, himself a former Stamford Bridge favourite in the twilight of his stellar career, was left stunned as his team had made an encouraging start.

The popular Frank Lampard, one of Chelsea's most reliable performers, was on hand in the 66th minute to hit a superb strike to make it two.

Jon Obi Mikel drifted in from the left and played the ball to Lampard, who advanced a few yards before unleashing a vicious, swerving effort which beat Friedel and found its way to the goal.

The "Blues" were then able to enter their comfort zone, but to their credit they decided not to and it was no surprise when they scored a third goal in stoppage time.

Blues only tie with Aston Villa

2007-01-03T10:19:00.000-08:00

It was a bad day for Chelsea. The Blue team failed to gain ground on the Premier League leader, Manchester United, as it was held at Aston Villa for its third straight draw in the Premier League.

Mourinho's team had the majority of chances in Birmingham on Tuesday. But the match ended 0-0, and Chelsea remained six points behind United, which drew 2-2 at Newcastle on Monday.

In fact, Chelsea won only one of its four games in 11 days over Christmas and New Year's. Against Villa it failed to score in a league game for the first time all season, and despite that it also kept a clean sheet after letting in two goals in each of its first three holiday games.

"Six points at the end of this disgraceful period is not bad," Chelsea Manager José Mourinho told Sky Sports, the British agency. "The way the team fought and the way they have behaved in the difficult moments we are living, I have a lot of hope for the second part of the season."

Indeed, after 22 matches, United leads with 54 points. Chelsea has 48. Liverpool is third with 40, one point ahead of Arsenal which thrashed struggling Charlton, 4-0, although all its goals came with its London rival down to 10 men.

Striker Didier Drogba should have put Chelsea ahead, but the striker mistimed his shot. Ashley Cole directed a first-half header into goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly's hands. Midfielder Lampard put his shot from inside the penalty area over the bar.

We must consider that Chelsea, which has been without center-half John Terry and goalkeeper Petr Cech, lost another defender, Khalid Boulahrouz, to an ankle injury.

Coach Mourinho admitted he would not rush Terry back despite having no center backs available for the FA Cup third- round match against Macclesfield on Saturday. Ricardo Carvalho is suspended after receiving a fifth yellow card this season.

Too bad, Chelsea

2006-12-26T22:38:00.000-08:00

Chelsea's defensive problems gave Jose Mourinho a headache. His team dropped two Premiership points after being held at home against Reading.

It's important to say that in the absence of influential captain John Terry - who is sidelined with a back injury and could now require surgery - Chelsea have conceded six goals in their past three league games.

Maybe it is strange, but late winners against Everton and Wigan Athletic rescued 3-2 wins. Despite that, yesterday their luck deserted them as Michael Essien scored a comical own goal five minutes from time.

Striker Dider Drogba's 11th and 12th league goals of the season had looked like hoisting Chelsea ahead of leaders Manchester United for two hours but United are now four points clear after seeing off Wigan.

Now Mourinho, chasing a hat-trick of Premiership titles, said Terry's continuing back problem was becoming a concern. "I really have no idea when John Terry will be back, nobody has told me if he is going for surgery, if it will be three days, three weeks or three months," the coach said.

"The real big problem is when you lose more than one crucial player ... to lose Petr Cech and John is a huge problem for us. Normally Chelsea in three consecutive matches have three clean sheets but in the last three we have let in six goals."

It's fair to say that after a scrappy opening 35 minutes, the popular Drogba broke the deadlock when he muscled through to head in Frank Lampard's corner, but Reading were never out the game and it was no surprise when Leroy Lita stooped to head in Glen Little's 67th-minute cross.

In fact, Drogba restored Chelsea's lead five minutes later, powering in another header from a cross delivered by substitute Shaun Wright-Phillips. Again, though, Reading hit back. Kevin Doyle's low cross on 85 minutes was cleared by Ashley Cole straight into Essien and the ball flew past the helpless keeper Henrique Hilario.

Chelsea: Hilario, Geremi (A Cole 70), Paulo Ferreira, Carvalho, Bridge (Mikel 70),Kalou, Essien, Ballack, Lampard, Shevchenko (Wright-Phillips 58), Drogba. Subs not used: Hedman, Diarra.

Reading: Hahnemann, Murty, Ingimarsson, Sonko, Shorey, Little, Sidwell, Harper, Gunnarsson, Doyle,Lita. Subs not used: Federici, Hunt, Oster, Sodje, Ki-Hyeon.

Chelsea and Arsenal tie 1-1

2006-12-12T09:46:00.000-08:00

Arsenal Football Club dealt Chelsea’s title hopes a blow by holding the champions to a 1-1 draw on Sunday. The result boosted the chances of Premier League leaders Manchester United.

As we know, Arsenal’s French midfielder Mathieu Flamini looked to have rifled in a 78th minute matchwinner, only for Chelsea’s Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien to smash home a stunning 30-metre piledriver in the 86th minute at Stamford Bridge.

However, the real winners on the day were United, who beat Manchester City 3-1 on Saturday and are now eight points ahead of second-placed Chelsea after playing a match more.

We must consider that Manchester United lead with 44 points from 17 games, Chelsea have 36 from 16, followed by Portsmouth and Liverpool on 28. Arsenal moved up to sixth on 26 points from 16 games.

Even though the result was a setback for Jose Mourinho’s side, they came desperately close to suffering a first home league defeat since February 2004, when they lost to Arsenal.

But they could also have snatched victory in injury time when Essien and midfielder Frank Lampard both hit the woodwork. Arsenal, who had lost their last three away league games, packed their midfield in an effort to battle the physical presence of the champions.

In fact, Jose Mourinho accused Arsenal of taking more satisfaction from sabotaging Chelsea’s Premiership challenge than getting their own title bid back on track. Mourinho admitted he was surprised with the Gunners’ cautious gameplan at Stamford Bridge.

Mourinho expressed: "Arsenal are 18 points behind United with one game in hand. So when I see a team happy with their result and yet they are out of the title race, it is a surprise. It is very funny to see this kind of cooperation. It looks like they are happy because we didn’t win."

Shaun Wright-Phillips wants to stay at Stamford Bridge

2006-12-06T10:18:00.000-08:00

Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips assured that he has no intention of quitting Chelsea despite transfer speculation involving Manchester City.

We must consider that Wright-Phillips scored his first goal in Chelsea colours in the 2-0 triumph over Levski Sofia in the Champions League to help the Premiership champions finish top of Group A.

In fact, the 25-year-old England winger has been unable to hold down a regular place in Jose Mourinho's team since he moved to London in a £21million transfer from City in 2005.

It's interesting to know that West Ham are understood to have made enquiries about his availability while City boss Stuart Pearce would relish the chance to take Wright-Phillips back to Manchester.

What's more, Arsenal captain Thierry Henry also urged the Gunners to sign the winger but the player says he has no intention of leaving and believes Chelsea can go on to become kings of Europe this season.

So Wright-Phillips stated: "I know I'm happy here, and everybody wants me here. What everybody talks about is their own problem, to be honest with you.

"I think training with the lads here doesn't give you anything but confidence and all I have to do is take it on to a big stage like I did against Sofia.

"The footballer, my family and friends have always believed in me when times have been tough and that also goes for the supporters. They have always been right behind me and that's why I clapped them after I score to let them know it was for them.

"I just don't see why we can't win the Champions League with the players we have and the way we've been playing, it is more than possible."

Mourinho defines squad to face Levski

2006-12-04T21:59:00.000-08:00

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho must replace suspended captain John Terry for the final Group A game against Levski Sofia at Stamford Bridge tomorrow.

As we know, the Blue team needs to win to ensure they finish top of the group but Mourinho revealed that England left-back Ashley Cole will be on the substitutes’ bench and France midfielder Claude Makelele will be rested.

It's important to mention that Wayne Bridge, who played against Sofia in the away leg, will deputise for Cole while Khalid Boulahrouz is expected to partner Ricardo Carvalho in the centre of defence.

This is the team that will play agianst Levski: Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Bridge, A Cole, Lampard, Carvalho, Boulahrouz, Essien, Ballack, Robben, Drogba, Morais, J Cole, Mikel, Diarra, Wright-Phillips, Shevchenko.

Chelsea earned a point at Old Trafford

2006-11-26T19:26:00.000-08:00

Great football and a fair 1-1 draw were the results of the Manchester United vs. Chelsea clash.

In fact, the eagerly awaited derby between Mourinho's team and Ferguson's squad produced a match that enthralled the watching nation. United had the better of a somewhat disappointing first half whilst Chelsea dominated the second half.

Mourinho was content that the result Sunday at Old Trafford stopped the Red Devils from going six points ahead and kept his club within three points of the Premiership leaders.

"We know in the second period of the season Man United has to go to Arsenal, to Chelsea and to Liverpool," Mourinho admitted, who has guided the Blues to lopsided league title triumphs in each of the last two seasons. "They will have a really tough time."

Wemust consider that United has 35 points from 14 games while Chelsea has 32. Bolton, which beat Arsenal 3-1 Saturday, is in third place with 24 points.

Didier Drogba wants to retire at Chelsea

2006-11-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

Didier Drogba feels like a real blue fan. Indeed, the Ivory Coast's striker assures he wants to finish his career at English champions Chelsea.

The talented player, who signed a four-year contract earlier this month, has won over the fans after an unstable first season following his move in July 2004.

"I'm 28 and I am definitely thinking of ending my career in Chelsea - if that's what the fans want," said the man who has already scored 14 goals for his team this season.

"However, I will play the game until I can no longer push myself. At one time I did think about leaving Chelsea because of many reasons. I regard the new deal with Chelsea as reward for hard work - but I also want to repay the club for keeping the faith."

"I want to stay because of the encouragement I've received from our manager (Jose Mourinho). Besides, the friends I have here have been so supportive.

"Our supporters are awesome, every player wants to play in a place where he is fully accepted and I've found that here at Chelsea."

We must consider that Drogba's goalscoring form has been a revelation this season but the striker has already set his sights on breaking more records with Chelsea.

The strong footballer says the reigning champions want to win all four trophies on offer this season - the Premiership, FA Cup, League Cup and Uefa Champions League.

"After signing the new contract I told myself this is the time to work hard," the Ivory Coast striker said.

"And then I can hopefully bring even more glory to our club and honour to myself."

Mourinho is happy with their victories in the Champions League

2006-11-03T02:08:00.000-08:00

Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho feels Chelsea are well equipped to get the title in this season's Champions League title.

We must remember that Europe's premier club competition eluded Mourinho in his first two seasons at Stamford Bridge, but he moved to remedy this by bringing in proven quality in the guise of Michael Ballack and Andrei Shevchenko.

And the Bluies fired out a warning to the rest of Europe on Tuesday, when twice fighting back from a goal down to draw 2-2 at Barcelona.

In fact, Mourinho's team is well placed to qualify for the knockout stages and although refusing to get too carried away, Mourinho feels Chelsea can go all the way this season.

Mourinho claims: "I cannot predict the future because I can find Spanish teams, English teams, German teams, Italian teams who can also win the tournament. However, the reality is that we're playing Champions League much better than last season.

"In our two wins at home to Werder Bremen and Barcelona we did very well. The triumph in Levski Sofia was easy but we did it. And this was our best performance of our four games in the Champions League."

Chelsea and Barcelona will fight for the first place in the Champions League

2006-10-30T21:27:00.000-08:00

Time for revenge... again. Chelsea Football Club will look to gain the first place of Group A with a win at Camp Nou on Tuesday against a somewhat struggling Barcelona squad.

The two European powerhouses will once again go toe-to-toe and have become quite familiar with one another. Two weeks ago, Chelsea downed Ronaldinho's team 1-0 at Stamford Bridge on Matchday 3 courtesy of a brilliant goal from Didier Drogba. The two have also met up in each of the past two Champions League knockout stages, splitting the two contests.

The last clash was a slow-paced affair that was surprisingly devoid of quality scoring chances. However, Ronaldinho and company are sure to bring a different intensity to the contest this time around, as they urgently need to begin piling up the points in order to advance to the knockout stage and have an opportunity to defend their title.

In fact, Barca currently sits five points behind the Blues in the group, and is level on points with Werder Bremen in second place. The German side takes on Levski on Tuesday, and is likely to earn the maximum points, making Tuesday's encounter with FC Chelsea all the more important.

We must consider that Jose Mourinho's team is in top form and will make it difficult for the hosts to come away with more than a point. Chelsea is unbeaten in its last eight league matches and has won all three matches in Champions League play so far. Despite the absence of the team's top two keepers, the Blues have continued their torrid pace with third-stringer Hilario between the pipes. The player blanked Barca two weeks ago and will be looking for more of the same as he operates behind a rock-solid back line.

Drogba shines in victory over Barcelona

2006-10-18T21:44:00.000-07:00

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba's amazing goal made the difference in a high-tempo European Champions League derby where Chelsea beat Barcelona 1-0 on Wednesday.

The outstanding moment came with just two minutes after the interval when the in-form Drogba conjured with the ball between his legs before jinking two defenders to shoot from the edge of the area, awarding Jose Mourinho's squad a deserved 1-0 triumph as the group rivals resumed hostilities at Stamford Bridge.

“The first half had been tough trying to control Barcelona’s counter-attacks, but once we scored it opened the game up and they lost their way,” Mourinho admitted.

Indeed, the first period had been tight and tense. However, scoring little more than a minute after the start of the second half, Chelsea gave themselves the confidence to dominate. Frank Rijkaard, the Barcelona coach, threw on substitutes with no results.

Maybe Rijkaard was under orders to promote Barcelona’s official suit supplier, but the supposedly cool Dutchman looked as if he had been moonlighting as a car-park valet. He changed jackets for the second half after Uefa officials complained about the advertising. Perhaps they were as horrified as the rest by an outfit that was hardly in keeping with Rijkaard’s stylish image or that of his club, who have made much of charitably bearing the Unicef logo.

It's important to mention that the only disappointment for Chelsea FC was that such a pleasing win over such dangerous opponents should come this early in the season. Providing Barcelona qualify from the group, Ronaldinho Gaucho has plenty of time to consider his revenge.

Chelsea players in FIFA Player of the Year nominees

2006-10-12T23:08:00.000-07:00

It's good to know that six Chelsea players are among the 30 nominated for FIFA's world footballer of the year, which Brazilian Ronaldinho Gaucho is aiming to win for a record-tying third time.

Indeed, Petr Cech, goalkeeper at the English Premiership champion, is named along with midfielders Frank Lampard, Michael Essien and Michael Ballack, and forwards Andriy Shevchenko and Didier Drogba for soccer's top individual honor.

We must remember that the coaches and captains of every national team will be asked to choose their top three players. FIFA will reveal the three with the most votes before announcing the winner in Zurich on Dec. 18.

Ronaldinho, who last season helped his team Barcelona clinch the Champions League and Spanish league titles, can become the first player to claim the FIFA award in three straight years. He edged Lampard and Barcelona teammate Samuel Eto'o to the crown last year.

Former France midfielder Zinedine Zidane, who retired after this year's World Cup and claimed the last of his three awards in 2003, is also listed, along with 2001 winner Luis Figo. Real Madrid's Brazilian forward Ronaldo, winner in 1996, 1997 and 2002, misses out.

IT's alos good to mention that other contenders include Arsenal trio Thierry Henry, Jens Lehmann and midfielder Tomas Rosicky, and Werder Bremen's German striker Miroslav Klose, top scorer at this year's World Cup with five goals. Fabio Cannavaro, who led Italy to the world title, is one of five footballers included from the nation's squad.

As we know, all 15 winners stretching back to Germany's Lothar Matthaeus in 1991 have claimed the award while playing for Spanish or Italian clubs. Seven awards have gone to Europeans and seven to South Americans, while African star George Weah of Liberia was Africa's only recipient, in 1995.

FIFA WORLD PLAYER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES
Adriano (Brazil)
Michael Ballack (Germany)
Gianluigi Buffon (Italy)
Fabio Cannavaro (Italy)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Petr Cech (Czech Republic)
Deco (Portugal)
Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast)
Michael Essien (Ghana)
Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon)
Luis Figo (Portugal)
Gennaro Gattuso (Italy)
Steven Gerrard (England)
Thierry Henry (France)
Kaka (Brazil)
Miroslav Klose (Germany)
Philipp Lahm (Germany)
Frank Lampard (England)
Jens Lehmann (Germany)
Alessandro Nesta (Italy)
Andrea Pirlo (Italy)
Franck Ribery (France)
Juan Roman Riquelme (Argentina)
Ronaldinho (Brazil)
Wayne Rooney (England)
Tomas Rosicky (Czech Republic)
Andriy Shevchenko (Ukraine)
Lilian Thuram (France)
Patrick Vieira (France)
Zinedine Zidane (France).

The Blues deny "pitch cheat" rumour

2006-10-08T00:34:00.000-07:00

In a public statement, Chelsea denied suggestions they had deliberately damaged their pitch ahead of a Champions League game with Barcelona.

In fact, many reports in the English press had drawn attention to pitch repairs carried out at Stamford Bridge this week that involved pouring tons of sand across the field.

It was claimed the sand may have been put down to hinder Barcelona’s fluid passing football when the spanish club play Chelsea on Oct 18.

Actually, the controversy echoes a similar incident when the sides met in the Champions League second round last season.

Then Barcelona claimed Chelsea had watered the turf excessively before the Spanish team trained at Stamford Bridge in a bid to disrupt their preparations.

However, Chelsea insist the sand was part of routine pitch work and a club spokesperson said: “Whilst the Chelsea players are away representing their national teams, an 18-day break between home fixtures has allowed our ground staff to carry out routine maintenance work on the Stamford Bridge field.

“The drainage system is being improved with additional drainage channels dug to ensure the pitch remains in top condition.

“We know that there are few times in the season when we can ensure our pitch remains in perfect condition.

“The international break allows us to carry out this work towards our aim of maintaining our playing surface as one of the best in the league” he concluded.

Guus Hiddink admits Chelsea interest

2006-09-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

Dutch coach Guus Hiddink has refused to rule out becoming sports manager of Chelsea after admitting he has had conversations with the club's owner, Roman Abramovich.

Indeed, having also guided his native Netherlands and South Korea, before leaving his Australian post to take over the Russian national team following the World Cup, Hiddink revealed he had also spoken to Stamford Bridge chief executive Peter Kenyon.

"Everybody has this preconception (about Abramovich) but I experienced a very humble and a very normal person," Hiddink told a newspaper of a man he says helped convince him to take the Russian reins.

"In fact, he was talking about football and everything that has to be done for his country and he asked me, and the president of the Russian federation, if I could help them out to bring the country back on a higher level."

Having reportedly been offered $6.2m prior to the World Cup to take the laedership of Chelsea, Hiddink also gave a hint that he would consider taking over from incumbent Jose Mourinho.

"I didn't know I would be here (in Russia) nine months ago, and the same with Korea and Australia, so you cannot predict, but as long as I love the job and enjoy composing teams then I don't say no to any job," he expressed.

Chelsea beat Blackburn Rovers

2006-08-29T21:07:00.000-07:00

Blackburn Rovers was a really tough rival for Chelsea, but the Blues managed to win. Second-half goals from Frank Lampard and Didier Drogba secured victory for Mourinho's team, but the scoreline only hints at the variety of drama at Ewood Park.

Hughes was upset by Lampard's penalty, awarded when Andre Ooijer tried to engage John Terry in a muscular waltz. "John Terry knows the ref is looking at him, and he decides to collapse his knees and fall in a heap," Hughes admitted. "The penalty decision was a big decision and the ref has to get it right. And he hasn't."

However, it was a clear penalty. "If a player holds on to another for two to three seconds, it is a penalty," observed the Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho. Terry also said: "The ref was aware he (Ooijer) had both hands … around me."

In fact, Hughes had far more legitimate grounds for complaint moments later when Ricardo Carvalho tested the strength of the stitching in Jason Roberts' shirt. "Roberts was clearly pulled back and the penalty was not given," Hughes expressed. "If he had gone down, perhaps Jason would have been given a penalty. He is just too honest."

Its' fair to say that Rovers, for whom Brett Emerton, Robbie Savage and Lucas Neill excelled, mixed up their game well, showing deftness and ruggedness. It defies belief to find them bottom of the Premier League.

Mourinho's new players were struggling to find their rhythm, although Michael Ballack's appetite was impressive. He almost engineered a chance himself midway through the half, however, it lacked the power to trouble goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

Slowly, Chelsea gained in confidence. Salomon Kalou was denied a penalty when barged over by Neill. A deserved spot-kick came three minutes after the break when Lampard punished Ooijer's grappling offence.

And with nine minutes remaining, Michael Essien guided Drogba through for the second goal.

We must mention that Aston Villa beat Newcastle United 2-0 at Villa Park with first-half goals from Luke Moore and Juan Pablo Angel, while Newcastle had an afternoon to forget as new $25 million signing Obafemi Martins was taken off on a stretcher after receiving a corked leg.

The result lifted Villa into second place behind Manchester United, followed by Everton in third place and Chelsea fourth.

Middlesbrough defeated Chelsea with Viduka's goal

2006-08-23T21:22:00.000-07:00

Australian forward Mark Viduka scored a dramatic late goal to help Middlesbrough win 2-1 over champions Chelsea on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Manchester United made it two wins out of two games.

This was a bad day for Chelsea, who slumped to their first defeat of the season, as Middlesbrough came from a goal down to beat Jose Mourinho's men at the Riverside.

In fact, Andrei Shevchenko fired Chelsea in front with his first goal in the Premiership on 16 minutes.

We must keep in mind that Emanuel Pogatetz drew Boro level on 80 minutes and Viduka won the game for Gareth Southgate's men in the final minute to stun Chelsea and give Southgate his first success as coach.

Khalid Boulahrouz arrives to Chelsea

2006-08-22T19:16:00.000-07:00

Khalid Boulahrouz has a scary nickname: the 'Cannibal'. The good news are that he is a Chelsea player now and the rivals will fear his hunger.

As we said, Boulahrouz joins Chelsea from Hamburg with a hard-man reputation Vinnie Jones would have been proud of. If you doubt it, here is Arminia Bielefeld forward Fatmir Vata, who missed three weeks of last season after a tackle by the 24-year-old defender. "Somebody like him shouldn't be allowed to play in the Bundesliga," he said. "He should be sent to prison for a foul like that."

Fortunately for Vata and the rest of German Bundesliga, the Cannibal is no longer their problem. His £6 million move to Stamford Bridge means that it is now Premier League strikers, not to mention referees, who are anxiously eyeing his tough-guy image.

He was targeted by Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho to help to provide cover in defence after a summer which has seen the sales of Asier del Horno and Glen Johnson and continued uncertainty over French defender William Gallas and Robert Huth.

However, Boulahrouz admits that his preference is the centre of defence, though he can also cover at right or left back. With Ashley Cole's move to Chelsea from Arsenal still on hold and Gallas set to be frozen out indefinitely by Mourinho, the Dutch international's flexibility could be crucial.

As for his claims that he once said he would "eat an opponent raw" - comments which gave rise to his menacing nickname - Boulahrouz insists he is just interested in playing fair. "I went to Hamburg when my German was not so good and I tried to explain how I play with my hands," he said. "The next day I opened the paper and saw 'The Cannibal signs until 2008'. But in fact, I never said I try to eat my defender.

"It's just that my philosophy of football is quite simple. I'm a defender and have to do my job, which is to control the strikers and stop them scoring goals. I try to be fair. I don't try to put footballers in hospital because I don't need that."

Chelsea coach Mourinho said that he admired the way Boulahrouz had battled his way up from a small club in Holland. He started under Martin Jol at RKC Waalwijk before joining Hamburg in 2004. Provided that international clearance is received in time, Boulahrouz should figure against Middlesbrough at the Riverside tonight. But Mourinho is again without Michael Ballack, Claude Makelele, Huth, Geremi, Joe Cole and Petr Cech, who are all injured, and Gallas, who is being left out until his future is clearer.

Excellent debut against Manchester City

2006-08-22T19:08:00.000-07:00

Chelsea made a good game on the opening day of the season. The Blues defeated Manchester City with goals from Terry, Lampard and Drogba. A 3-0 was enough to see off a poor City challenge and set the Champions on their way again.

Mourinho couldn't use Michael Ballack because of an injury, but the other new star, Shevchenko, was fit for this match.

Manchester City started with Weaver in goal and Reyna in the problem left midfield position. There was no place for Vassell in the starting eleven as Pearce went with new boy Corradi partnering Samaras up front in an attempt to unsettle the Chelsea defence.

To be fair, the visitors started with a game plan that had worked on previous opportunities, namely close Chelsea down and hope for the best. Thatcher took the instructions to heart and subsequently conceded a dumb free kick that led to Chelsea's opener.

From that moment, Chelsea were never going to be worried by City's lightweight performance. Lampard added a second, via a deflection, when the City defence failed to clear at the edge of their box. In fact, Chelsea looked content to keep it at two until ten minutes from time when an incisive break led to Drogba heading home a Bridge cross.

Chelsea lost in America

2006-08-06T17:44:00.000-07:00

It was not so good after all. Chelsea's galaxy of super players were outshone at Toyota Park by the best of America's Major League as they lost 1-0 on Saturday night.

In fact, it was little more than an exercise encounter for the London giants and it gave manager Jose Mourinho the opportunity to see his new signings in action while also trying out two formations.

However, the Portuguese coach never likes losing and he would not have liked the unfamiliarity of defeat, with Dwayne de Rosario hitting the winner.

As we said, Mourinho paired strikers Andriy Shevchenko and Didier Drogba together in attack, as well as Michael Ballack and Frank Lampard in the centre of midfield.

He also handed starts to Wayne Bridge, who was sent to Fulham on loan last season, and Shaun Wright-Phillips, who was omitted from England's World Cup squad after falling out of favour at Chelsea.

The Americans looked the more threatening in front of goal early on without testing Carlo Cudicini too often.

Despite that, they came to life in the 16th minute when the lively Wright-Philips attempted to send Drogba through on goal only for Jimmy Conrad to pull him down five yards outside the box.

It's fair to say that free-kick specialists Ballack and Lampard stood over the ball and it was the Englishman, who struck the ball low towards the bottom far corner but Troy Perkins was equal to it, saving by his post.

Striker Drogba did have the ball in the back of the net from Ballack's perfectly-weighted throughball in the 28th minute but the linesman had his flag aloft much to the embarrassment of the two people who ran the full length of the touchline with big "goal" banners.

Brian Ching then got in between Paulo Ferreira and Cudicini. However, could not clip the ball into the empty goal.

Chris Albright should have put the home side ahead just five minutes from the break. The winger got behind Bridge but with just Cudicini to beat, he clipped the ball just wide of the far upright.

Wright-Phillips then nipped the ball past goalkeeper Perkins and then pulled the ball back towards Shevchenko but the Ukrainian was denied his first Chelsea goal by Facundo Erpen's intervention.

Mourinho reverted back to one out-and-out striker after the break in Salomon Kalou, with Shevchenko and Drogba both making way.

Mikel John Obi also made his debut coming on for Ballack alongside newly-introduced wingers Joe Cole and Arjen Robben.

And Erpen almost gifted Chelsea the lead after the break when he steered the ball past his own goalkeeper towards the goal but Bobby Boswell saved his blushes by clearing the ball off the line.

A worrying sight for Mourinho was Cole hobbling off after just four minutes of his introduction with an ankle problem.

Chelsea's new-look defence, with Ricardo Carvalho also replacing Ferreira, were given a few anxious moments after the break.

Captain John Terry again proved his worth when he threw himself in front of Ronnie O'Brien's goal-bound strike after 59 minutes.

There was little the defenders could do to prevent the Americans from taking the lead in the 70th minute when De Rosario fired past Hilario, on moments earlier for Cudicini, from the edge of the area. Summer signing Hilario seemed slow to react.

The blue team battled to the end and Joe Cannon saved from Terry late on and Jimmy Smith and Robben headed wide.

Cannon then saved from Carvalho's point-blank shot in the dying seconds to spark wild celebrations from the home team.

Ashley Cole is the next target

2006-08-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

Coach Jose Mourinho claims to have learnt his lesson from last season's 'tapping-up' row and vows that his bid to sign Arsenal left-back Ashley Cole will be entirely above board this time round.

"Arsenal know we are interested. We know that the player belongs to Arsenal. We know they have the power to decide," the Portuguese coach expressed.

"Everything is absolutely clear. I think if people made mistakes in the past year, they are not making them this season."

In fact, Mourinho, Cole and Chelsea were all fined by the FA after meeting without Arsenal's knowledge in a London restaurant in January 2005.

With Cole apparently burning any bridges with his present employers by publishing damning criticism of the north London side in an upcoming book, Chelsea FC may feel that such skulduggery is no longer needed.

However, with the deadline for registering players for the Champions League fast approaching and Asier Del Horno already sold to Valencia, the Blues will be keen to reach an agreement with Arsenal as soon as possible.

The Gunners' value Ashley Cole at over £20 million, and with Gael Clichy as a ready replacement and the bills on their new stadium paid for, they are in a position to force Roman Abramovich to match it.

Mourinho confident before game between MLS Allstar and Chelsea

2006-08-04T14:16:00.000-07:00

In some ways it seems fitting that Chelsea is the squad to face Major League Soccer's best in the All-Star game on Saturday. Coach Jose Mourinho leads a teamd into the game at Toyota Park in Bridgeview, Ill., that has been considered by many to be a true constellation of superstar players.

But the coach describes his team differently: "We feel very, very comfortable together," he explained. "This team has a lot of maturity."

In fact, his attitude has helped bond the multimillionaires under his guidance. As Michael Ballack was formally presented as a Chelsea player at the team's preseason hotel, his main concern didn't seem to be how well he would mesh in the midfield with Frank Lampard, for instance.

The Chelsea players have a tradition that each squad addition has to regale everyone with a song at a team dinner. German player Michael Ballack, sporting a new short cut that might have been inspired by Mourinho's own recent buzz, had yet to perform. "I still have to sing," he admitted to the media.

His tune of choice? "I don't know."

And while Ballack might have been nervous about his karaoke turn, Mourinho, adept at mixing some of the best talent into a cohesive unit, was calm about integrating his new prospects.

"We have new footballers that are high quality, and they bring motivation for us," he said. "They don't come here just to make cash -- they come for a crucial challenge in their careers and new success."

Crespo is not for sale

2006-07-24T23:05:00.000-07:00

In an official announcement, Chelsea assured that they won't sell Argentine star Hernan Crespo unless a "suitable offer" is made.

In fact, this statement is contrasted with the striker's own desire to return to Italian soccer.

"It's just that I want to return home. The fact is I love Italy. Money and success don't come into it," Crespo said through the local sports newspaper Tuttosport on Monday.

He noticed that he has been "treated like a king" at Stamford Bridge , but "I can just guarantee that I am a healthy striker with just one wish to return and play my kind of football."

We must remember that the 31-year-old Crespo joined Chelsea with a 26.20 million US dollars transfer from Inter Milan in August 2003. What's more, he spent two seasons at Stamford Bridge and one loan at AC Milan in 2004-05.

It's important to mention that Crespo looks likely to be the third-choice striker behind club-record signing Andriv Shevchenko and Ivory Coast international Didier Drogba. In fact, Crespo scored 13 goals in 26 appearances last year with the club.

Chelsea after Kaka and Obi Mikel

2006-07-18T16:36:00.000-07:00

Chelsea's £70 million offer for Kaká was turned down by AC Milan yesterday, but the Barclays Premiership champions had better news when John Obi Mikel, the Nigeria midfield player, received special dispensation to obtain a work permit, despite not fulfilling the needed criteria.

As we know, Milan, still reeling from being excluded from this season’s Champions League and being given a 15-point deduction for their part in the Italian match-fixing scandal, have stated that Kaká, or any of their other stars, are not for sale at any price.

The striker yesterday denied that he had said that he was flattered to be wanted by Real Madrid, who tabled a £35 million bid, and reiterated his desire to stay at Milan, where he signed a new deal until 2011 last month.

“Neither La Liga or the Premier League will be able to boast the likes of Nesta, Gattuso, Kaká or Pirlo,” Milan said in a statement last night. “They are our champions and are here to stay. Kaká once again politely but firmly declined the interest of another team. Playing for Milan is a matter of the heart, like being with family.”

Chelsea FC have also been rebuffed in their pursuit of Gianluca Zambrotta, who would replace the departing Asier Del Horno. The Juventus player wants to join Milan and should a deal not be agreed, he has expressed that he would prefer to move to Real.

Nesta is the next target

2006-07-11T22:48:00.000-07:00

Unofficial sources claim that Chelsea have approached AC Milan about defender Alessandro Nesta's availability.

According to a British newspaper, coach Jose Mourinho wants Nesta, robbed of a place in the World Cup final victory over France by injury, to bolster his backline.

It's important to mention that Chelsea are monitoring the match-fixing case soon to decide AC's fate next season. If Milan are relegated to Serie B, the Premiership champs aim to bag a bargain.

What's more, a source close to the San Siro giants revealed: "Chelsea have made an enquiry. The deal would depend on AC Milan being relegated."

Basically, Chelsea have offered to the italian club: "If the worst comes to the worst for you, don't sell Nesta to anyone else. We will pay more and definitely want that player."

Crespo admits he will go to Italian football

2006-07-04T13:02:00.000-07:00

Chelsea frontman Hernán Crespo makes it clear that he wants to return to the Italian League. To the question as to whether he would prefer Inter or Milan, the Argentine says "I don`t mind. I think that I`ve done well and I left a good impression at both clubs. I don`t know if that is the right way, but I hope so. However, at the moment there isn`t anything concrete. I told my manager to call me only if there are any real chances".

Crespo might like to revise his preferences with today`s news that the prosecutor investigating the scandals affecting Italian football is asking that AC Milan be relegated to the Serie B and starts the season with a 3 point disadvantage. Inter might be a nicer prospect. "It`s true. I`m very disappointed with that. I want to wait for the sentences first before making any comments, but my desire to return is huge, enormous. I really love Italy and the championship".

Asked whether Chelsea would place any obstacles on his move, Crespo replied that "no, although Roman Abramovich in person asked me to renew my contract. 'I want you to stay for life`, he admitted. I`m grateful to him, but I told him I couldn`t accept that. I have another two years on my contract with Chelsea but I want to return to Italy. I'm sure he won`t make any obstacles."

"I don`t mind where I play. Everybody knows that I want to return to play in Italy. Although Chelsea have tried everything, they are resigned to me leaving" he assured.

So it's very clear that Chelsea won't stand in Crespo`s way. It won`t be the first time he`s expressed a desire to play in the "Calcio".

Chelsea will have a hard schedule in the next season

2006-06-22T11:28:00.000-07:00

The schedule is ready. English Premiership champions Chelsea have been handed a horrid draw for attempt to defend its title and press for a third successive crown.

Indeed, the release of the 2006/07 English Premier League draw gives the Blues a tough path at home, having to face Manchester United, Newcastle, Bolton, Arsenal and Everton in its final five encounters.

With Tottenham two weeks earlier, the "blues" must face second, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh placed clubs from last season in its final seven games.

However, an easier first four games including home fixtures against Manchester City and Charlton will help as they try to emulate last season's feat of winning its first nine games.

Ballack wants to stay at Stamford Bridge until retirement

2006-05-21T23:51:00.000-07:00

Chelsea finished one of the most polemic transfers of this season: Michael Ballack left Bayern Munich to dress in blue. The club offcially presented the German player.

Now Michael Ballack has revealed he expects to finish his career at Chelsea FC. He completed his free transfer from Bayern Munich, signing a three-year deal, and said he hoped it would be his last club.

"I want to finish my career here," the talented player said. "I hope things work out well and that we're successful in the next three years and the possibility will exist to extend that deal.

"You could say that is my vision at the moment, to end my career at Chelsea."

Ballack will be in Blue

2006-05-14T15:55:00.000-07:00

In a very controversial move, English champions Chelsea FC are set to confirm the signing of midfielder Michael Ballack from Bayern Munich on Monday.

"I'm happy and very proud," coach Jose Mourinho said.

"I'm really happy with the conversation I had with him and that's the reason he decided to come here."

As we know, Ballack was jeered by some Bayern fans in his final appearance for the club against Borussia Dortmund.

"I want a new challenge now. I've got to accept some jeering. It shows I was a very good player but it does hurt," he said.

Bayern supporters believed Ballack had deceived them about his future.

"I wasn't trying to mess anyone about," Ballack said.

"I was not able to make up my mind sooner and couldn't force a decision only because Bayern managers demanded one."

Ballack will lead Germany in this summer's World Cup finals on home soil.

"We are the champions... again"

2006-04-30T08:55:00.000-07:00

It's celebration time. Chelsea FC earned their second consecutive Premier League title in style by beating nearest rivals Manchester United 3-0 in front of their own fans on Saturday.

A goal from French defender William Gallas was followed by superb second-half strikes from man-of-the-match Joe Cole and centreback Ricardo Carvalho. With this, Chelsea emphatically underlined their current domination of English football.

Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho, who celebrated by tossing his medal and blazer into the Stamford Bridge crowd, has now won back-to-back titles with two teams following his successes with FC Porto in his native Portugal.

"It is an amazing feeling, a second title for Chelsea and a fourth for me and my people," he said. "We know one day we have to lose the championship, but for now it's fantastic. To win successive titles is not simple to get, but we have been ahead from the start of the season and I think we deserve it."

SUper talented midfielder Frank Lampard added: "The league does not lie. We are 12 points clear and we have beaten Manchester United 3-0. This is our moment and we are going to enjoy it."

Chelsea is ready to win their second Title

2006-04-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

Jose Mourinho told his team to forget about the loss against Liverpool in the FA Cup and focus in the game against Manchester United. If they earn one more point, they will win their second League Title.

Joe Cole noticed that Chelsea are over their FA Cup semi-final heartbreak last weekend. Nnow their are prepared to win the English Premiership.

In fact, Jose Mourinho's men know that as long as they avoid defeat when Manchester United visit them at Stamford Bridge they will retain the title.

We must consider that Manchester United, however, are desperate to spoil the west Londoners' title party.

England international Cole expressed: "We've had a great time in training this week, working hard. Last Saturday's gone and now all we can do is achieve the remarkable feat of putting back-to-back titles together, and we are ready do that this Saturday.

"I always enjoy training and everybody has been looking fine. It's going to be a big match in Chelsea's history. Everyone wants to be playing but it is down to the coach and he has a fully fit team more or less to pick from."

Chelsea win over Bolton 2-0

2006-04-15T21:58:00.000-07:00

Chelsea FC is closer to their second successive Premier League title, after a stunning 2-0 victory at Bolton Wanderers on Saturday.

The goals were scored by England internationals John Terry and Frank Lampard, and now Chelsea is nine points clear of Manchester United, who were surprisingly held to a goalless home draw by Sunderland on Friday.

In fact, the Blues could secure the title at Stamford Bridge on Monday by beating Everton if United fail to win at Tottenham Hotspur earlier in the day.

According to the Premier League classification, Chelsea have 85 points, United 76 and Liverpool, who visit Blackburn Rovers on Sunday, are third on 70. Tottenham have 61 with Arsenal on 57 after their 3-1 win at home against West Bromwich Albion. Blackburn have 54.

About the match, Chelsea went ahead in the 44th minute when Lampard swung in a free kick and Didier Drogba and John Terry rose unmarked together to meet it, the English defender claiming the final touch.

Is fair to say that Lampard doubled the lead on the hour from close range to set a Premier League record of 15 goals from midfield and the champions cruised home.

Chelsea win and get closer to the title

2006-04-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

They are so close that we can call them virtual champions. Ten-man Chelsea defeated West Ham United 4-1 and the Premier League is almost decided.

Coach José Mourinho sent-out a radically changed team. With none of his normal four wide players chosen, Drogba and Crespo were paired in attack for the first time. There was a midfield four that saw Lampard, Essien and Maniche play in front of Makelele and Gallas was returned to central defence.

James Collins had given West Ham an early lead before Maniche was sent off for a foul on Lionel Scaloni - the sixth Chelsea player to be dismissed since January. "Only a squad with great character and one very focused on going back to winning, could have done what the players did," Mourinho noticed. "It was a really fantastic performance."

He singled out striker Drogba, who equalised and set up Chelsea's second for Hernan Crespo, for special praise. "Didier shut a few mouths," Mourinho said. "I think he was amazing. I think Drogba should go home, switch on TV and buy every paper to see if the same people who wanted to kill him now have the commonsense to give him the credit he deserves."

Line-ups:

Chelsea (4-1-3-2) Cech; Gérémi, Gallas, Terry (c), Del Horno; Makelele; Essien (Carvalho 89), Maniche, Lampard; Crespo (Robben 66), Drogba (J Cole 90+1).

West Ham (4-2-3-1) Hislop; Scaloni, Collins, Gabbidon, Konchesky; Benayoun (Sheringham 71), Mullins; Harewood, Reo-Coker (c), Etherington; Ashton (Zamora 83).

Chelsea 0 - Birmingham 0

2006-04-03T10:35:00.000-07:00

This was another negative result for Chelsea FC. The Blues couldn't break the deadlock against Birmingham City, and the team’s Championship charge has been seriously weakened by four points from the last four away League games, all against relegation-threatened sides.

In fact, Chelsea reverted to 4-3-3 with Robben again fit. Birmingham had injuries to Clapham, Upson, Izzet, Dunn, Gray, Melchiot and Sutton, plus Jarošik was unavailable as he is on loan from Chelsea.

It was a very tough game for Mourinho's side. Drogba and Duff wasted good chances to score. Terry and Lampard completed a good performance, but that wasn't enough.

Now the closer rival, Manchester United, have their best chance to catch Chelsea on the top of the table.

Birmingham: Maik Taylor; Tebily, Cunningham (c), Martin Taylor, Sadler; Pennant, Johnson, Butt (Kilkenny 87), Clemence, DJ Campbell (Forssell 57); Heskey.

Chelsea: Cech; Ferreira, Carvalho, Terry (c), Del Horno (Crespo 64); Gudjohnsen (Essien 68), Makelele, Lampard; Robben, Drogba, Duff (J Cole 64).

FC Cup Derby: Chelsea vs. Liverpool

2006-03-24T11:21:00.000-08:00

It's almost like the destiny wanted it to be this way. Now the FA Cup will be boiling with an intense match. Chelsea and Liverpool have been drawn together in semifinals.

In fact, the giants will go head to head for the fifth time this term, having met twice in the Premiership and home and away in the Champions League group stage.

Also, in the other semi-final, West Ham will meet the winners of the replay between Middlesbrough and Charlton.

We have to sya that Chelsea's game with Liverpool, will be staged at Old Trafford on Saturday 22 April, with the other semi-final to be held at Villa Park on Sunday 23 April.

Thrilling Chelsea last minute win over Tottenham

2006-03-14T09:27:00.000-08:00

Chelsea returned to the winning path by defeating Tottenham by 2-1. Tottenham Hotspurs looked set to frustrate Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge until the Gallas stormed forward in the dying minutes.

Indeed, the defender cut in from the left past Paul Stalteri and Jermaine Jenas before unleashing an unstoppable drive into the top corner.

Paul Robinson, who had made an amazing save just minutes earlier to deny Didier Drogba, couldn't help it this time.

The game appeared to be heading for a draw, with Michael Essien breaking the deadlock with his first goal for Chelsea before Jenas levelled on the stroke of half-time.

The winner from Gallas means the Blues now need just five more wins from nine games to secure back-to-back titles.

And Tottenham's miserable run against their London rivals continues. They have not beaten Chelsea in the league in 32 attempts, spanning 16 years.

It's fair to say that Chelsea paid tribute to Peter Osgood before the first home game since the sudden death of their legendary striker.

Osgood's family and former team-mates were at the match as the fans paid their tributes with a minute's applause.

The man known as the "King of Stamford Bridge" would have approved when Essien gave the Blues the lead in the 14th minute with a clinical side-footer.

What's more, Michael Carrick had put the Spurs defence under pressure with a sloppy pass to Lee Young-Pyo, which allowed Shaun Wright-Phillips to nip in to steal the ball.

Wright-Phillips, making only his eighth Premiership start of the season, sped into the box and cut a low cross into Essien's path. The Ghanaian midfielder made no mistake, tucking a right-footer inside the far post to put Chelsea ahead.

It's good to notice that Essien should have scored four minutes earlier when he blasted wide with the goal at his mercy. Wright-Phillips dashed onto a long punt from Petr Cech and unleashed a low shot which was parried by Robinson. The rebound made its way to Essien, who had the entire goal to aim for with Robinson out of position, but blazed wide from 12 yards.

Chelsea is out of the Champions League

2006-03-08T22:06:00.000-08:00

FC Barcelona qualified for the quarter-finals of the Champions League yesterday and left Chelsea out of the competition.

Ronaldinho scored in the 78th minute to give host Barcelona a 1-1 tie with Chelsea and put the Spanish league leaders into the final eight 3-2 on aggregate. English midfielder Frank Lampard scored from the penalty spot for Chelsea in injury time.

A pass from Samuel Eto'o started the fantastic 6 second of Ronaldinho, who skipped into the area, barged past Chelsea defender John Terry and drove the ball past diving Petr Cech.

"There's nothing better than winning a game like this one," Ronaldinho would say.

The Barcelona-Chelsea match -- the Spanish champions against the English champions -- was the most awaited match of this season's Champions League. Seldom generous in defeat, Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was true to form when asked if the better team had won.

"I don't think so," Mourinho said. "We played against them four matches in two seasons, and 11 against 11 they never beat us. That's the reality."

Chelsea got tough victory

2006-02-27T16:42:00.000-08:00

Chelsea recovered from its midweek defeat to Barcelona with a shaky 2-0 win over Portsmouth.

Frank Lampard and Arjen Robben scored against relegation-threatened Pompey, extending the champions' lead on second-placed Manchester United to 15 points.

Chelsea looked jaded after their 2-1 defeat by Barcelona and took their time warming up against Harry Redknapp’s side, who now look firm candidates for the drop.

Ivory Coast striker Didier Drogba lined up the precious opener for Lampard, with the England midfielder making up for what had been a disappointing performance with a fine finish.

Robben did the same after being set up by a superb ball over the top of Portsmouth’s defence by Icelandic striker-cum-midfielder Eidur Gudjohnsen.

Eidur Gudjohnsen played a part in Chelsea's both goals, stepping over Didier Drogba's cross for Lampard's 65th-minute strike and laying on Robben's in the 78th minute.

Chelsea defeated at home by Barcelona

2006-02-24T01:14:00.000-08:00

On a remarkable night of Champions League comebacks, Barcelona beat 10-man Chelsea 2-1 in London while Werder Bremen scored twice in the last three minutes to beat Juventus 3-2 in their first knockout round first legs.

It's important to notice that what had been billed as the match of the round at Stamford Bridge looked to have been spoiled by a red card for Chelsea full back Asier Del Horno in the 37th minute for a wild lunge at Argentine teenager Lionel Messi.

In fact, Chelsea battled on though and took the lead with a Thiago Motta own goal after an hour.

Another own goal, by Chelsea captain John Terry, levelled the scores 12 minutes later before Samuel Eto'o headed Barcelona's precious winner 10 minutes from time.

Chelsea - Barcelona: The Revenge game?

2006-02-20T22:16:00.000-08:00

Chelsea FC will face a strongly motivated Barcelona, with Ronaldinho in his best shape. The Champions League game will take place on Wednesday.

In fact controversy surrounded both legs of last year's clash, which Chelsea won 5-4 on aggregate to reach the quarter-finals. Chelsea reached the semifinals but lost to eventual winner Liverpool.

"It will be harder because they're going to want revenge, they need it" Chelsea player William Gallas said. "When a team is hurt, they want to show their fans, and the whole world, that what happened last year was an error."

Both sides went on to win their respective leagues last year and will most likely repeat this season.

This time, Chelsea hosts the first leg Wednesday (TV, Wednesday midnight ET on tape delay). Last season, Barcelona had a 2-1 home-leg advantage then rallied from 3-0 down only to lose 4-2 at Stamford Bridge.

"I think it will be even harder this year. We're going to have to be very focused the whole 90 minutes of each game," Gallas said. "It could turn on the slightest incident."

Experts believe that includes the coaches. Last year, the behaviour of Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho - a former Barcelona assistant - almost overshadowed the result.

Indeed, Mourinho accused Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard of colluding with referee Anders Frisk at halftime of the first leg. Frisk received death threats and retired, while Mourinho, who was labelled an "enemy of football" by a UEFA official, was suspended for Chelsea's quarter-final games against Bayern Munich. Terje Hauge of Norway will referee the first leg, UEFA announced Monday.

During the match at Stamford Bridge, Rijkaard and some of his team actually argued and scuffled with Chelsea's security staff.

Chelsea lose 3-0 against Boro

2006-02-12T08:20:00.000-08:00

In a surprising result, Chelsea was outplayed 3-0 by a hard die Middlesbrough in the English Premier League on Saturday to record Jose Mourinho's heaviest loss as Blues manager.

Second-placed Manchester United trimmed Chelsea's lead to 12 points by beating Portsmouth 3-1.

The goals where scored by Brazilian midfielder Fabio Rochemback, England winger Stewart Downing and Nigerian striker Aiyegbeni Yakubu. It's good to remember that Middlesbrough was beaten 4-0 at home by Aston Villa last week.

"When you lose, it is always a bad day, especially when you don't lose a lot of times," Mourinho stated. "In my time at Chelsea, this is the third defeat in the Premiership and you can say it was the worst.

"We lost last season to Manchester City 1-0 and we didn't deserve it; we lost this season at Manchester United 1-0 and we didn't deserve it; we lost today 3-0 - but we deserved it."

Steve McClaren's 'Boro has also beaten Manchester United and Arsenal at home and, after its latest victory, climbed one place to 16th, a healthy eight points clear of the relegation zone.

"We got the goal early and it settled us down and gave us something to fight for," McClaren said. "We defended very good and hit them on the break. We always looked dangerous."

Actually, Chelsea FC is still a runaway league leader, but Manchester United closed the gap with victory over next-to-last Portsmouth.

Joe Cole voted for Player of the Month

2006-02-08T11:11:00.000-08:00

Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has been voted PFA Player of the Month for the first time since he joined the Blues.

In fact, a statement from the PFA said: "Joe Cole has made massive progress since becoming a regular in coach Jose Mourinho's side, and his increasing contribution to the Chelsea FC cause has certainly not gone unnoticed by the supporters who have voted him Fans' Player of the Month for January.

"After many match-winning performances around the turn of the year, Mourinho said Cole was 'untouchable' and added: 'I think Cole is playing magnificently in every game and he is perhaps our best attacking player at this time. When I came here nobody knew Joe Cole's best position - not even him! We only knew that he was a creative player.'

"But Joe Cole has come to learn that whilst you can be the Special One's favourite one week, you can expect a verbal volley the next - and a place on the bench. These days though, the former West Ham midfielder starts more games than he misses and is an integral part of the Chelsea midfield alongside his England pal Frank Lampard.

"Cole has certainly added consistency to the undoubted class which also makes him an England starter, and he says: 'I have been a regular in the Chelsea side for the last 12 months or so and shown my worth to the team. Yet football is a fickle game and I know things can change quickly. People want to see you do the business every week.

"The whole team has to keep on top of things and we want to keep a nice cushion at the top of the table. You can never rest on your laurels because the standards are so high at Chelsea and you need to be at your best every game you play in.

"One of the areas I would like to improve is my goalscoring. I scored between five and seven goals a season when I was at West Ham. Okay, I'm not like Frank Lampard who can shoot from 30 yards. I need to get the ball a bit closer to goal. Even so, I'll be working my hardest to get that goal ratio up.'

"Whether he gets the chance to do it in tomorrow's FA Cup replay against Everton remains to be seen - but he'd love to be leading the revenge mission from the front. He added: 'Everton pushed us all way up there and because they have also taken points off us in the League, we feel as though we owe them one.'

"Looking at the bigger picture and the Chelsea ambitions for the remainder of the campaign, Cole said: 'Last season was a cracking one for Chelsea Football Club, but we want this one to be even better. It's great for me to be part of such a success story and to be playing for a fantastic club like Chelsea".

Abramovich Calm About Chelsea’s Record Losses

2006-01-30T15:38:00.000-08:00

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon says that Roman Abramovich is not concerned about the club’s record 140 million pounds loss for the year ending June 2005.

Kenyon told to a radio station: “He’s fully aware of where we’re going in the long-term and fully aware of the stages in the short-term,

”It’s not a question of one day walking into the office and saying ’oh by the way we’re just posting a 140 million pounds loss.’

“He knows for sure of the progress of the business and football club.”

He noticed: “What matters is that there’s a point in time where Chelsea are self-sufficient,

”I believe it matters as he’s a good businessman, he’s a passionate supporter of Chelsea and we think that being recognized as one of the top football clubs is success on the field and success in business.“

He continued: ”There are no plans for Abramovich to sell Chelsea FC,

“The plan is that we get to break even then, clearly, make a profit. The long-term plan is to be really successful as a club and business, and within a 10-year-period be recognized as one of the top clubs in Europe.

”If Mr Abramovich left tomorrow, we’re secured.“ he assured.

It's important to remember that Roman Abramovich has invested about 440 million pounds in Chelsea, mostly buying in players, since taking over in July 2003.

Flinders handed Chelsea FC chance

2006-01-25T11:50:00.000-08:00

Barnsley goalkeeper Scott Flinders has headed to Stamford Bridge to start a trial spell with Premiership leaders Chelsea FC. The 19-year-old goalkeeper has been making a good name for himself in the Premier League, and the Yorkshire club have of course given him permission to impress the Champions.

"It is an unique opportunity for Scott and we just cannot stand in his way," Tykes boss Andy Ritchie told the club website. "He will go down to train with them on Monday and we will see what happens."

Flinders starred for England in last years’ Under-20 Toulon tournament, and is being tipped as a great prospect for the future.

Chelsea win over Sunderland 2-1

2006-01-17T07:30:00.000-08:00

Arjen Robben made the goal of the victory in the 70th minute. With this, Chelsea held on for a 2-1 win over Sunderland on Sunday in the English Premier League. Lawrence scored the goal for Sunderland and Crespo levelled for the blues.

At first, Robben's chip was deflected in by Sunderland defender Dean Whitehead. He then earned a second yellow card for jumping over the advertisements lining the field to celebrate with the fanatics in the stands. The midfielder was booked in the first half for a challenge on Liam Lawrence.

``In my opinion his first booking was a little bit harsh as well,'' Chelsea captain John Terry stated. ``To jump over a board, and as long as you're ... going to celebrate, you've just put us 2-1 up away from home, grinding out a great result, there's no harm in that at all.''

Lawrence gave Sunderland the lead when he took a soft clearance from Terry and shot past Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech.

The Blues levelled 16 minutes later when striker Hernan Crespo headed in a cross from Joe Cole. The Argentine nearly gave Chelsea the lead minutes later but he headed Frank Lampard's cross over the bar.

Chelsea FC leads the league with 61 points, followed by Manchester United with 45 and Liverpool with 44.

``We've got a good record, 10 on the spin now with Man U losing (on Saturday) as well but Liverpool are looking good and they've got two games in hand,'' Terry said. ``We just have to keep plugging away and keep winning.''

Gudjohnsen hero: Chelsea 2 Huddersfield 1

2006-01-07T09:44:00.000-08:00

Eidur Gudjohnsen made the firefighter job for Chelsea with a late winner after Huddersfield had been very close to pull off one of the biggest FA Cup shocks in recent history.

England international Carlton Cole, in his first start of the season, put Chelsea in front in the 12th minute when he converted Damien Duff’s low cross at the second attempt.

As Chelsea failed to turn superiority into goals, Huddersfield gained in belief. Attacking the Shed End in the second-half where stood and sat their 6,000 fans, the visitors began to ask Chelsea to defend. The equaliser came with 15 minutes to go. Fortunately, it took only six minutes more to prevent an wanted trip up the motorway to West Yorkshire.

But Gary Taylor-Fletcher stunned the Barclays Premiership champions with a second-half equaliser, before Gudjohnsen put them into the next round by supplying the the finish to Arjen Robben’s left-wing cross nine minutes from time.

Crespo scored as Chelsea got another victory

2006-01-02T22:08:00.000-08:00

Chelsea FC swept to an impressive 3-1 victory against West Ham United. This three points at Upton Park gave Chelsea a large 14-point lead over their nearest rivals Manchester United, who face Arsenal at Highbury in the showcase clash on Tuesday.

Forward Hernan Crespo scored after just seconds of coming on as a substitute and Didier Drogba lashed in the goal of the game as Chelsea romped home in the London derby.

Midfielder Frank Lampard volleyed home against his former club in the 25th minute, though the leaders were pegged back just after the re-start by Marlon Harewood's equalizer.

Crespo, put through by Arjen Robben, rounded Roy Carroll to restore the lead in the 61st minute and Drogba made the third from a tight angle with 10 minutes to go.

A fourth win from their four festive season matches helped Chelsea's canter towards a second consecutive league title.

"That's what we are up to" Lampard told us. "We don't want to let up, we want to keep winning games, keep the gap at the top and if anything make it bigger."

Chelsea stay atop after beating Manchester City

2005-12-29T14:28:00.000-08:00

Current Champion Chelsea FC extended their Premier League lead to 11 points when Joe Cole scored for a 1-0 win over Manchester City and rival Manchester United was held 2-2 by Birmingham City yesterday.

Chelsea, whose only league lost game last season came at the City of Manchester Stadium, had to wait until the 79th minute for the matchwinning tap-in from Cole after an Eidur Gudjohnsen strike was parried.

"I think this is the toughest game we've had all season," Cole said.

"However, we passed the ball well and in the end we deserved to win ... and it was a great victory tonight, especially with Manchester United dropping points."

Cole's fellow England midfielder Frank Lampard missed the match due to illness, meaning his record for consecutive Premier League games has ended at 164.

Chelsea beats Fulham 3-2

2005-12-27T13:39:00.000-08:00

In a very emotive match, Argentine forward Hernan Crespo scored in the 74th minute. With this goal, Chelsea won 3-2 in a clash where Fulham rallied from two goals down.

"Fulham have a good coach who can motivate players and good players who can come out in the second half and fight." Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho told us.

The former AC Milan player volleyed spectacularly past Fulham goalkeeper Mark Crossley after winger Joe Cole's cross looped over defender Zat Knight. The Blues improved to 16-1-1.

Chelsea (49 points) retains its nine-point lead in the standings following the second-place Manchester United beat West Bromwich Albion 3-0 with goals from Paul Scholes, RioFerdinand and Ruud van Nistlerooy.

Chelsea want a private jet for Essien

2005-12-25T00:36:00.000-08:00

Chelsea FC asked Ghana to let midfielder Michael Essien fly between Egypt and England in a private jet during the African Nations Cup next month.

The African midfielder may miss up to six matches for Chelsea if Ghana make it to the final on February 10 but their hopes of getting Essien to and from Egypt during the tournament appear to have been dashed by international coach Ratomir Dujkovic.

Dujkovic thinks that move would leave the player exhausted and he is determined Essien will link up with the rest of the team as soon as the international regulations allow him to do so.

"The English Club suggested Essien could commute during the Cup using their private jet," said Dujkovic.

"Another alternative would be to allow him to stay with them a little bit longer before the tournament starts."

According to FIFA rules, Ghana can ask the midfielder to join them on January 7, but the Serbian coach is hopeful the two parties can reach a compromise and he is to discuss the matter with the board of the Ghana FA next week.

Chelsea to sign up Maniche

2005-12-23T19:23:00.000-08:00

Chelsea FC is serious about signing Maniche next week. The Portuguese midfielder is expected in London for talks about a short-term contract on Thursday and a deal will be announced when the transfer window opens on January 1.

Coach José Mourinho insisted that he would not delve into the transfer market next month, but has chosen to reinforce his midfield before the African Cup of Nations. Chelsea will lose Michael Essien, Gérémi and Didier Drogba for up to six matches in the new year, leaving Mourinho short of alternatives in midfield. Just as he did last year when signing Jiri Jarosik from Locomotiv Moscow, Mourinho has opted to go for an unheralded squad player who will not rock the boat.

We must remember that Mourinho and Maniche go back a long way. The Chelsea manager is convinced that he can fill in for Essien as a strong central midfield player who can also pass the ball. The 27-year-old played under Mourinho at Benfica and Porto, playing a crucial role in the Porto team that won the Champions League in 2004 before making the surprise pass to Dynamo at the end of last season.

Mourinho had previously said that he would not call any more Portuguese players. However, Maniche is expected to his just signing of the transfer window. His arrival should minimise the disruption caused by the Cup of Nations and Drogba believes that Chelsea could even benefit from the tournament, in which he will represent Ivory Coast.

“I want to play important matches and enjoy myself and will be doing that with the national team,” Drogba said. “When I’m with Chelsea I give 120 per cent for the club and it’s the same with the national team.

“I’ll give everything and I might even become a better player. I will learn a lot of things as it’s my first African Cup of Nations. I want to come back with the trophy, which will give me more confidence for the rest of the season. That is going to help Chelsea.”

Chelsea were so concerned by Essien’s potential absence that they offered to fly the Ghanaian back and forth on a private jet. “It’s very hard for Chelsea because Essien won’t be available to them for several matches,” Ratomir Dujkovic, the Ghana coach, said. “I understand their problem as Essien is important to them, but he is also very important to Ghana. Essien is confused because he likes playing for Ghana, but he is worried about losing his place in the Chelsea first team.”

2006 Chelsea FC Squad

2005-12-20T22:47:00.000-08:00

Goalkeepers

1 Petr Cech
23 Carlo Cudicini
40 Lenny Pidgeley

Defenders

18 Wayne Bridge
6 Ricardo Carvalho
3 Asier del Horno
20 Paulo Ferreira
13 William Gallas
29 Robert Hutg
2 Glen Johnson
26 John Terry

Midfielders

10 Joe Cole
19 Lassana Diarra
11 Damien Duff
5 Michael Essien
14 Geremi
8 Frank Lampard
4 Claude Makalele
16 Arjen Robben
24 Shaun Wright-Phillip

Strikers

15 Didier Drogba
22 Eidur Gudjohnsen
9 Hernan Crespo
12 Carlton Cole

Chelsea FC History

2005-12-18T15:06:00.000-08:00

One of the richest clubs in the world, Chelsea F.C. was founded on March 14, 1905 at The Rising Sun pub (now The Butcher's Hook). After a short time, the club was elected into the Second Division at the Football League AGM on May 29, 1905. Chelsea's first game took place away at Stockport County on September 2, 1905. They lost the game 1-0. Their first home game was against Liverpool in a friendly. They won 4-0. The Club began with established players recruited from other squads and promotion to the top flight was swift, but the club's early years brought no trophies. Chelsea reached the FA Cup final in 1915 but lost out to Sheffield United. They would have to wait forty years for their first major honour. However, they consistently attracted enormous crowds. 77,952 attended the fourth round FA Cup tie against Swindon on 13 April 1911, and 82,905 attended the league game against Arsenal on 12 October 1935. Safety considerations make such attendances impossible now: the current legal capacity of the stadium is 42,522.

In 1952, Ted Drake was appointed coach. One of his first actions was to remove the image of a Chelsea pensioner from the game programme and the club's old nickname was no more. In 1954-5, Chelsea won the First Division title under Drake with a squad that included captain and top-scorer Roy Bentley, goalkeeper Charlie 'Chic' Thomson, left-half Derek Saunders, inside-right Johnny 'Jock' McNichol, right-half Ken Armstrong, outside-left Frank Blunstone, full-back Peter Sillett and future England coach Ron Greenwood at centre-half.

Although Chelsea was only 12th in the table in November, they secured the title with a game to spare after a 3-0 win against Sheffield Wednesday. Key to the success were two league wins against eventual runners-up Wolverhampton Wanderers and a ten-game unbeaten streak in the title run-in. Chelsea's points total of 52 for that season remains the lowest to have secured the English League title. That same season saw the club complete a unique quadruple, with the reserve, 'A' and junior sides also winning their respective leagues.

Winning the Championship should have ensured that Chelsea became the first English participants in the inaugural European Cup competition the following season. However, they were denied by the intervention of the Football League and the F.A., many of whose leading members were opposed to the idea and felt primacy should be given to domestic competitions, so the club withdrew.

The club wasn’t able to build on their title success, however, and there followed a succession of uninspiring mid-table finishes. This run culminated in relegation from the First Division in 1962 and the departure of Drake, who was replaced by player-coach Tommy Docherty. In his first season as coach Docherty led Chelsea to promotion.

Sixties to eighties (1960-1989): It's interesting to notice that the swinging 60s ushered in an era that saw football and inimitable style merge in the heart of London; with the fashionable King's Road at the heart of the swagger. A 60s Chelsea that oozed charisma and class ultimately failed to game its swagger with on-field triumphs. No major domestic titles were won, except for the League Cup in 1965 (Chelsea's first League Cup), followed by an FA Cup final loss to Tottenham Hotspur in 1967.

The early 1970s saw a very nice Chelsea squad which is still fondly remembered (not least because it was a couple of decades before its achievements were gameed at the club): it featured the likes of Ron 'Chopper' Harris, Ian Hutchison, Charlie Cooke and Peter Osgreat. In 1970 Chelsea ran out FA Cup winners (beating Leeds 2-1 in a pulsating final replay at Old Trafford). A UEFA Cup Winners' Cup triumph was added to the haul the following year—Chelsea's first European honour. The club also reached a second League Cup final in 1972, though lost out to Stoke City.

But there were no further success in that decade, as the discipline of the squad degenerated and an over-ambitious redevelopment of the stadium (which only got as far as the pioneering East Stand, which retains its place even in the modern stadium) threatened the financial stability of the club as well. Further troubles were caused by a fearsome reputation for violence amongst a section of the supporters (the boundary between passion and hooliganism being dangerously narrow in those days) and the club started to fall apart both on and off the field.
The financial troubles exacerbated the club's other difficulties and a spiral of decline began. Star players were sold off, the squad was relegated, and the freehold of the stadium site was sold off to property developers, which was to create serious troubles in the years to come.

Despite that, Chelsea retained its high profile; and its widespread base of supporters, many of them very hard core, saw it through what proved to be the very difficult years of the 1970s and 1980s. However, although relegated to the Second Division twice, it never fell further (although it came dangerously close).

Chelsea FC was, at the nadir of its fortunes, acquired from the Mears family interests by Ken Bates for the princely sum of £1, and Bates proved to be a real fighter as the new chairman, although his opponents included supporters (who did not take kindly to his suggestion of electrified fences to keep them off the pitch) as well as the property developers who now owned the freehold. In 1992, Bates finally outmanoeuvred the latter and reunited the freehold with the Club, by seeing the property developers go bust and doing a deal with their banks.
Meanwhile, Chelsea, having spent the early part of the decade in the Second Division, were promoted as champions in 1984, achieved two consecutive top six finishes in the First Division (with an impressive squad which included the likes of Kerry Dixon, Pat Nevin and David Speedie), were relegated in 1988 and finally won promotion to the First Division as champions again in 1989. This time, it managed to stay in the top flight: indeed, it has remained there ever since.

The 1990s: In a new golden stage, Chelsea had an amazing return to the First Division in 1989-90. Coach Bobby Campbell guided a team of mostly unremarkable players to a creditable fifth place in the final table. Although the ban on English clubs in European football was lifted that year, Chelsea missed out on a UEFA Cup place because the only English place in the competition that year went to runners-up Aston Villa. Campbell resigned a year later and he was replaced by Ian Porterfield, who helped Chelsea finish high enough in 1991-92 to qualify for the first-ever season of the Premier League. He quit halfway through the season and was replaced on a caretaker basis by former Chelsea hero David Webb, who guided Chelsea to an 11th place finish. Webb was replaced at the end of the season by 35-year-old former England midfielder Glenn Hoddle, who had just won promotion to the Premiership as player-coach of Swindon Town.

Hoddle's first season as coach saw Chelsea's league form dip slightly, but they reached the FA Cup final—and, although they lost 4-0 by Manchester United (who were awarded two penalties), this was sufficient to qualify Chelsea to compete in Europe for the 1994-95 Cup Winners Cup (since Manchester United had independently qualified for the Champions League). They reached the semifinals of the competition and went out by one goal to eventual winners Real Zaragoza.

Chelsea now had a decent team with several top class players, the most significant of which was courageous captain Dennis Wise. But chairman Ken Bates and director Matthew Harding were making millions of pounds available for the club to spend on players, and two world-famous players were signed in the summer of 1995 - Dutch legend Ruud Gullit (free transfer from Sampdoria) and Manchester United's high scoring striker Mark Hughes (£1.5million). Hoddle guided Chelsea to another 11th place finish in 1995-96 and then quit to become coach of the England squad.

Gullit was appointed player-coach for the 1996-97 season, and had an impressive first season in management by winning the FA Cup (and finishing sixth in the Premiership). The 2-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Wembley ended Chelsea's 26-year wait for a trophy, and was a happy end to a season which had looked to be dominated by sadness after the death in October of director and financial benefactor Matthew Harding in a helicopter crash.

Gullit was suddenly sacked in February 1998 with Chelsea set for a top-five Premiership finish, and another player-coach was appointed—33-year-old Italian striker Gianluca Vialli. Vialli began his management career in style with victory in the Cup Winners Cup and the League Cup. He also guided Chelsea to a third-place finish in the 1998-99 Premiership campaign, high enough for a first-ever appearance in the Champions League. Vialli also guided Chelsea to another FA Cup victory in 2000. By now, Chelsea had a top-notch multi-national team which included the likes of Italian striker Gianfranco Zola, Dutch goalkeeper Ed de Goey, Nigerian full-back Celestine Babayaro, Italian midfielder Roberto di Matteo and French centre-half Frank Leboeuf.

The new millennium: Glory days came for the team, as Vialli was dismissed in September 2000 and replaced by another Italian, Claudio Ranieri—who guided them to another FA Cup final in 2002 but was unable to prevent them from losing to double winners Arsenal.

Ken Bates unexpectedly sold Chelsea F.C. in June 2003 for £60 million, making a personal profit of £17 million on the club he had bought for £1 in 1982 (his stake had been diluted to just below 30% over the years). The club's new owner was Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, who also took on responsibility for the club's £80 million of debt, quickly paying all of it. He then went on a £100 million spending spree before the start of the season and landed players like Claude Makélélé, Geremi, Glen Johnson, Joe Cole and Damien Duff.

The spending saw a great return, with Chelsea finishing the Premiership runners-up and reaching the Champions League semifinals after beating Arsenal in the quarterfinals. But Ranieri was sacked after ending the season trophyless, and Abramovich recruited José Mourinho (who had lifted two Portuguese league titles, a Portuguese Cup, a European Cup and a UEFA Cup with FC Porto) as the club's new coach.

2004-05 was the most successful season in the history of Chelsea Football Club. They secured the Premiership title in a record breaking season by gaining 95 points from 38 fixtures (ending a 50-year wait for the title with the highest Premiership points total for a 38 game season), along with setting records for: most wins (29), fewest goals against (15) and most clean sheets (25) in a 38 game season. All this in the season that also saw "The Blues" lift the League Cup. Mourinho was regarded by many as one of the best coachs in the world, and many of Chelsea's players were also critically acclaimed by journalists and supporters alike and figured prominently in the English national side (and other national sides). In addition to the two major trophies won, Chelsea reached the semifinals of the Champions League, losing to the eventual winners Liverpool to whom they had conceded only one goal.