By Guest Writer Ross Mackiewicz.
Chelsea striker Didier Drogba’s fitness has come into serious doubt following the damaging defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last Saturday at White Hart Lane.
Drogba, who has once again been in scintillating form this term for Chelsea, tweaked his groin just before the start of the second half. His discomfort was evident for all to see but as Carlo Ancelotti had already made his three substitutions, the Ivorian had to play through the pain barrier for the remainder of the game.
This is a big dilemma not only for The Blues but also for the player. With the World Cup looming Drogba will not want to jeopardise his chances of playing in a consecutive FIFA World Cup with the Ivory Coast. He is almost certain to have surgery in the coming weeks, but whether it will be sooner rather than later is a dilemma he and his club face. However with the Premier League title hanging in the balance with three games to go, Carlo Ancelotti faces a huge decision whether or not to risk one of his prized assets who has netted 32 goals this season.
“It’s his decision,” said Ancelotti. “He doesn’t have a big problem. It’s more about controlling the situation. He’ll take a decision at the end of the season, whether he has surgery or not. But it’s not sure he’ll have surgery.”
Nicolas Anelka and Drogba’s country man Saloman Kalou are waiting in the wings if called upon by the Italian tactician. Anelka, who has only netted nine times this term, lacks the pure presence which Drogba possesses and hasn’t really shown his early season form in the last few months.
With a determined Stoke City coming to the Bridge this Sunday and captain John Terry suspended following his dismissal at Spurs, the Blues will be hoping their talisman Drogba will be spearheading their attack on the Premier League title this coming week.
