Jose Bosingwa Out For 3 Months

Chelsea defender Jose Bosingwa will be out for around three months after undergoing surgery on his left knee this week, according to the club’s official website.

The 27-year-old has been out since mid-October with the problem and will now not return until the new year.

A statement released on www.chelseafc.com read: “Chelsea Football Club can confirm that Jose Bosingwa underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee this week. His recovery time will be approximately three months.”

The Blues, who lead the Barclays Premier League by five points from Arsenal and Manchester United, were, however, buoyed by the news that England left-back Ashley Cole does not need to go under the knife following a shin injury.

“Meanwhile, Ashley Cole is suffering from an aggravation of a depressed fracture of the tibia, originally picked up against Atletico Madrid at Stamford Bridge,” the statement added.

“The injury will not require surgery.”

Rafael Van Der Vaart Might Go To Chelsea

Chelsea have been offered Dutch midfielder Rafael van der Vaart by Real Madrid, according to reports stemming from the English media today.

The Spanish giants are looking to recoup a portion of their vast expenditure over the summer months, and have already allowed Arjen Robben to move to Bayern Munich, while Wesley Sneijder vacated the Santiago Bernabeu to switch to Italian giants, Inter.

Van der Vaart has been on the periphery of the first-team this season, and coach Manuel Pellegrini has previously stated that he would be willing to let the former Ajax playmaker leave the club should a suitable offer arise.

The Sunday Times states that the 26-year old is unhappy with his current role with Los Blancos, and given the fact that he has not made an appearance in the Champions League, he would be eligible for European football after Christmas should he move clubs in January. But Chelsea may not be the best option as the Blues have been slapped with a transfer ban by FIFA and barring a successful appeal, the Merengues may have to take their business elsewhere. 

The midfielder made the switch to Spain from German side Hamburg in the summer of 2008 but appears to be surplus to requirements under Florentino Perez’s revolution, and he has also stated his desire to play more first team football with the World Cup in South Africa looming on the horizon.

Chelsea Demolish Blackburn

Four goals in 16 minutes put The Blues back on top of the Premier League, and put the pressure on Man Utd ahead of their trip to Anfield.
Frank Lampard bagged 2 goals to continue his return to form, and justify his preferred deeper midfield role, whilst Joe Cole made a sparkling return to the starting 11.
Cole nearly got Ancelotti’s side off to the perfect start inside the opening 30 seconds, finding himself unmarked 6 yards from goal, the England international could only head wide.
But this early attack was the sign of things to come, as Paul Robinson’s goal was peppered with efforts from distance.
The most notable of these chances was a crisp strike from Lampard that stayed gun-barrel straight and whistled past the post.
In the 20^th minute the home side did make the break through and it all started from a rare Blackburn attack, with Chelsea hitting on the break.
The ball broke to Michael Ballack who then slipped in Nicolas Anelka down the left. The Frenchmen produced a perfectly weighted low cross for Didier Drogba to attack, but the Ivorian was beaten to it by Gael Givet, who turned it past his own keeper.
This could have opened the floodgates but to their credit Blackburn stuck to their task and like all sides under Sam Allardyce, where hard to break down.
A slick move across the penalty area involving Cole, Lampard and Anelka almost brought a second before halftime, but Robinson did well to block Anelka’s shot.
Drogba then hit a swerving 35 yarder that almost deceived the keeper, before Terry and Drogba again pulled fine saves out of the Robinson.
Throughout the first half Carlo Ancelotti had looked a frustrated man as his side wasted chances, and whatever he said during the interval clearly emphasised his annoyance, as Chelsea blew Rovers away in the second half.

Lampard got the ball rolling in the 48^th minute, when a lovely turn and cutback from Drogba down the left channel ran to the number 8, who coolly fired home from 12 yards.
It was 3-0 soon after as the shoot on sight policy saw Michael Essien reap the rewards, his curling 30-yard strike too good to keep out.
Juliano Belletti was forced off on the hour with a stomach problem, but Chelsea didn’t break stride.
Just 4 minutes later Chelsea had a 4th, Didier Drogba brought down by Ryan Nelsen after powering into the area. Lampard did the honours from the spot.
And 5 minutes later Chelsea had their fifth. Michael Ballack whipping in a corner and Drogba out muscled Nelson to head home.
Joe Cole then returned to his showboating best, with stepovers and a scissorkick cross to get the home fans on their feet.
Another encouraging sight was the first team debut of young Dutchmen Jeffrey Bruma, who got 23 minutes under his belt and looked comfortable alongside John Terry.
The skipper had the final word in the game, his great goal line clearance to deny Olsson made it a great night all round for The Blues.
So its 9 goals unanswered since the disappointment and Villa Park, and given that at this stage last year cracks started to appear in our title hopes, The Blues are well positioned going into November.
The return of Cole, as well as solid performances from fringe players like Belletti and Ferreria can only strengthen the chance of the Premier League trophy being back at the Bridge come May.
Chelsea: Cech, Ivanovic, Carvalho (Bruma 67), Terry, Belletti (Ferreria 61), Essien, Lampard, J Cole (Sturridge 77), Ballack, Drogba, Anelka.
Subs not used: Hilario, Malouda, Deco, Kalou.
Blackburn: Robinson, Jacobsen (Salgado 60), Givet, Nelsen, Olsson, Emerton, Pedersen (Hoilett 69), Nzonzi, Andrews, Roberts (Kalinic 53), Diouf.
Subs not used: Brown, Jones, Reid, McCarthy.
Booked: Pedersen
Man of the Match: Joe Cole. At the top of the diamond, he sparkled. Great to see him back to his best.

Liverpool AGAIN!! Plus Other Fixtures of the champions league.

Liverpool to face Chelsea in their 1^st leg on the 15^th of April

Chelsea has a bad record against Liverpool in the champion’s league. The Merseyside team has also beaten Chelsea once this season at Stamford Bridge devastatingly destroying their decorated home record.

The Reds and the blues will battle it out for a place in the semi-finals of the Champions League

We all know Chelsea under Guus Hiddinks team is yet to be beaten and we can’t count out the blue champions just yet. Guus has more up his sleeve then anyone can think of. In this encounter I fancy Chelsea.

Other Fixtures of the Champions League:

Friday’s draw at UEFA headquarters also paired Liverpool and Chelsea, who have met three times in semi-finals in the last four years.

Liverpool prevailed in 2005 and 2007 but the Londoners finally overcame their bogey team in extra-time last season before losing to United in the final. Barcelona meet Bayern Munich while Villarreal will play Arsenal in the other last eight ties. Arsene Wenger’s team beat the Spaniards in the 2006 last four before losing to Barca in the final.

The quarter-final first legs will be played on April 7 or 8 with the return matches the following week. UEFA has said it will do all it can to avoid Liverpool playing on April 15-the 20th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.

Rafa Benitez’s side, buoyed by the coach’s contract renewal and a 4-1 win at United in the Premier League, will be at home for the first leg.

United lost to eventual winners Porto in 2004 when Jose Mourinho was the coach of the Portuguese side.

Alex Ferguson got his own back on his old nemesis last week when United knocked out Mourinho’s Inter in the last 16.

In the draw for the semi-finals, United or Porto will play Villarreal or Arsenal and Barcelona or Bayern will meet Liverpool or Chelsea.

The semi-finals take place on April 28 and 29 and May 5 and 6.

The final will be played on Wednesday, May 27 at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, where there will be no home interest after Inter, Juventus and AS Roma were all eliminated in the last 16.

 

Chelsea Unstoppable at the Moment??? A few words hiddink has to say about chelsea’s chances!

Will chelsea go all the way or will they succumb to the pressure put on by manchester united??

Chelsea interim coach Guus Hiddink believes the squad’s adaptability could hold the key to success on three fronts this season.

Chelsea remain unbeaten since the Dutch coach agreed to take charge of the squad and they have reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League and semi-finals of the FA Cup.

The Blues are also chasing Manchester United at the top of the Barclays Premier League. Hiddink’s side cut United’s lead to four points with a 1-0 success over Manchester City on Sunday but the Red Devils still have a game in hand.

However, following four straight league wins and victories over Coventry in the FA Cup and Juventus in the Champions League, Hiddink has been boosted by the squad’s versatility as they prepare for two tricky away games at Tottenham and Newcastle.

“I’ve seen what each of my players can do,” said Hiddink. “I knew some things about them before I arrived and now, from working with these players every day, I know much more about them.

We need the unstoppable chelsea back!! And the mourinho days .... Hiddink might just be the on to make the foundation of winning revitalised at chelsea.

“This is a squad that can challenge on all fronts until the end and that’s what we are aiming to do. In Coventry we played with three forwards – one striker and two wingers – and against Juventus we started with two strikers.

“In both games we scored twice and controlled them in spells. It shows me that this team can adapt to different ways of playing and we have the squad to change in this way if the situation needs it.

“We have also demonstrated an attitude to recover from setbacks. We came back twice against Juventus to win the tie on aggregate.

“With two more away games against Tottenham and Newcastle, it is not the easiest run of games for us and we’ll need to be at our best but we have shown that we can be versatile, both in our approach and in our systems of play.”

Meanwhile, captain John Terry has underlined the task facing the Blues if they are to stand any chance of catching Manchester United.

United need to slip up for Chelsea to have a realistic opportunity of winning the title and Terry is adamant that to get anywhere near that target, the Blues cannot afford any more mistakes of their own. United still have a game left with the gunners and hopefully for us chelsea fans , arsenal wont dissapoint. I believe the key loss to liverpool at old trafford could be a turning point in the title race and chelsea HAVE to make use of it , if they have any chance of winning the league title then a win in every game is a must.

“We still haven’t achieved anything this season,” said Terry. “In the league we simply can’t slip up. We’ve started a run with the new gaffer but it is only a start. We have to turn it into one of those unstoppable Chelsea runs and, if we do, who knows what we might go on to achieve.”

Former Chelsea winger Pat Nevin believes it is possible for Hiddink’s side to catch United especially with defender Ricardo Carvalho and midfielder Michael Essien fit once again.

Both started in the 1-0 win over Manchester City with Essien’s first-half goal – his second in as many games – earning Chelsea another vital three points the day after Manchester United had been mauled 4-1 by Liverpool at Old Trafford.

“Bringing the league trophy back to the Bridge is still a long shot, but not now beyond the bounds of possibility,” said Nevin. “Chelsea have to keep on winning for sure, but psychologically, if the Blues keep effortlessly powering past good teams the way they did on Sunday, then that will pile even more pressure on United.

“Losing four goals at home will not have done Sir Alex Ferguson’s men much good either, especially as Chelsea have looked so miserly, particularly since Guus Hiddink arrived. If ever shoulders were being looked over in Manchester, now is the time.”

UEFA Champions League Preview. Arsenal , Chelsea , Barcelona , Manchester United , Liverpool Etc.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE:

 

Judging by results in the first knockout round, British sides’ recent dominance of the competition looks set to continue.
But could the draw throw up one or even two all-British quarter-finals encounters? Could holders Manchester United be given a chance to avenge their 4-1 Premier League drubbing at the hands of Liverpool last weekend?

Bayern Munich, Villarreal, Barcelona and Porto are the four non-British sides still in the reckoning

 

BAYERN MUNICH :

Bayern Munich boss Jurgen Klinsmann is confident of success in the Champions League after his side’s 12-1 aggregate victory over Sporting.

Having won the first leg 5-0 in Portugal, the Bundesliga side then more than doubled their lead in the home tie with a 7-1 win, despite having star players Franck Ribery and Luca Toni unavailable through injury.

And, while they are still yet to hit top form in the league, Klinsmann believes Bayern have now proved they can compete with the best in Europe.

“We played very well,” he said. “The boys enjoyed the match.

“We are happy to have recorded such a convincing victory in front of our home fans – it was a perfect Champions League night.

“Now we hope we will meet an attractive opponent in the quarter-finals.

“The players have already shown what they are capable of. At this stage of the tournament, there are no favorites. All games are 50-50.”

Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness, meanwhile, said he believes the victories will cause other clubs to sit up and take notice.

However, he admitted he would be loath to face Liverpool in the next round after their 5-0 aggregate win over Real Madrid.

“I certainly don’t want to play against Liverpool,” he said.

“I think they are very, very strong at the moment.

“Liverpool has no chance of winning their league anymore and that enables them to concentrate on the Champions League.”

He added: “The important thing would be to play the first leg away. That would be a huge advantage.

“I would not like to have to play first at home to Manchester United and then go to Old Trafford.”

 

Bayern Munich – Miroslav Klose – A player to watch out for:

While the cat’s away the Miroslav Klose will profit. That seems to be the case in the absence of Luca Toni from the Bayern ranks, anyway. Italian hit man Toni seems to hog the headlines when he plays and scores, but Klose has shone of late with goals and assists and will look to enjoy himself again on Tuesday with his strike partner sitting this one out.

 

 

VILLAREAL:

Villarreal have not reached the last eight of the European Cup by outmuscling the opposition. They are committed to tasteful, passing, clever football and in that regard they are probably the side with the closest DNA match to the squad who, it should not be quickly forgotten, are the most recent to have been crowned champions of Europe. That team are Spain, victors at Euro 2008, a championship as free of English involvement as the Champions League seems dominated by it.

 

Villarreal look well enough placed in La Liga to think they will be in the European Cup again next season, although their domestic form has undulated since they took brief, early-season residence at the top. In the group phase of the Champions League their Spain players showed signs of fatigue from their summer adventures and two goalless draws shared with Manchester United were no advertisement for the flair in both squads. But the more Villarreal frequent this competition, the less they look up at mightier institutions in awe. If the tournament does have a dark horse from outside the Premier League, it is ridden by the men from the one-horse town.

ARSENAL:

Fabrfegas believes arsenal has what it takes to become Europe’s dchampions.

After more than three months out with medial knee ligament damagfe, Fabregas is set to return in time for the first leg of the last-eight matches on April 7 or 8.

The draw will be made on Friday, and Fabregas is confident of further progression whoever the opponent.

“We know it will be tough in the next round, but we also know we can beat any one of them,” Fabregas said. “Let’s see what the draw brings.Europe, and we are there on merit.

“We are in the quarter-finals, among the eight best teams in

“We deserve to be there, and it’s serious now. If you want to win this competition you have to beat the best players in the world and now is that time.”

The Gunners will find out who they face at the next stage of the competition on Friday, when Uefa make the draw for the ties at their headquarters in Nyon.

The Spaniard’s comeback will be a timely boost for his side, who reclaimed fourth spot in The Premier League from Aston Villa over the weekend and edged past Roma on penalties in the last 16 of the European competition to book their place in Friday’s draw

It’s still a big ask to win the Champions League, but Arsenal should certainly not be written off as genuine contenders for the trophy. A favorable draw next Friday could be enough to see the Gunners into the semi finals and once you get that far, anything can happen. In saying that, what are the odds of a trip to the Nou Camp and the return of a certain Mr. Henry taking place?

 

ARSENAL – BENDTNER – PLAYER TO WATCH OUT FOR:

Wenger defended the 20-year-old after the game and insists he has a great future at the Emirates.

“What is interesting with him is that his performance improves,” said Wenger.

“I’ve seen players miss chances before when they are young and then once they start to score they quickly get impressive.

“Just imagine if he had taken two of his chances (on Saturday], everyone would have said what a great game he had.

“He was not far away from taking two chances so let’s support him, be positive and encourage him.”

FC PORTO:

Porto looked strong in the group stages, topping a difficult quartet that included Arsenal, Dynamo Kiev and Fenerbahce.

Porto, on the other hand, is a well-balanced and well-organized team that can go toe-to-toe with anybody. They’ve been very impressive in the Portuguese league this season, and I think a lot of people are under-estimating them in this competition.

 

LIVERPOOL:

After the 4-0 Anfield mauling of Real Madrid, the Reds make themselves the team to beat in the quarter finals, with the likes of Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres firing on all cylinders.

Liverpool are serious contenders lined up in the champions’ league quarterfinals. After thumping Manchester United at home and crushing real Madrid, with Liverpool scoring over 4 goals in both matches, It almost seems unfair to write them off .Beating the European champions Manchester United shows Liverpool are one of the hot favourites to win the champions league this season. I think Liverpool has what it takes to beat the likes of Chelsea (crushed their astounding home record this season), Manchester United, Barcelona and Bayern Munich and of course arsenal.

Liverpool – Gerrard and Torres – players to watch out for:

Gerrard accepts that he has been guilty of storming all over the pitch, attempting to single-handedly change the course of matches. “I have tried to improve that,” he said. “That was a criticism from Rafa (Benitez).

The clubs captain has truly been in sublime form this season and hes getting better. Scoring 2 goals against Real Madrid including a scorcher and converting a penalty against Manchester United last week at old Trafford. The teams steam engine is definitely one of the players to be looked on to.

Torres another gem of a player for liverpool has also been in top form this season despite getting injured numerous times but Rafa puts his trust into the striker and takes chances of playing him when hes not fully fit.This shows the importance of torres to liverpool.

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez admits they need Fernando Torres to stay fit for any chance of winning the champions league this season.

“we have to keep Fernando on the pitch”, said Benitez, who confirmed his star striker did not have an injection to ease the pain in his fragile hamstrings for their victory at old trafford.

“he gives us more confidence and helps us to create more opportunities. It is the same with Steven Gerrard.

 

FC BARCELONA:

The Catalans are arguably the strongest side left in the competition and will be pitted against one of seven teams this Friday.

Even though the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool appear to be their closest rivals for the trophy.

Barcelona would relish a match against one of the four English clubs that have qualified for the Champions League quarter-finals along with the Primera Liga leaders, coach Pep Guardiola said.

“If you want to win the Champions League you have to play with the best in Europe,” the former Barca and Spain midfielder told a news conference after the Catalans overwhelmed Olympique Lyon 5-2 at the Nou Camp.

“So we’ll take the challenge. It would be nice to taste success against one of the English sides,” he added. “If we have to play one of them it will definitely be a good match.”

They are still in with a chance of winning a treble with the Champions League, Primera Liga and King’s Cup and have a six-point lead over second-placed Real Madrid in the Spanish league.

The 2006 winners reached the semi-finals of last season’s Champions League, losing to eventual winners Manchester United, and Guardiola said the quartet of United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool would all be formidable opponents in the last eight.

“It will be difficult for us but they have to come here to play so I’m sure it will be difficult for them too,” he said.

“Whoever our opponents are, we will study them closely and try to pinpoint their weaknesses. Whoever we are drawn against is welcome.”

Bayern Munich, Porto and Barca’s Spanish rivals Villarreal are also in the quarter-final draw on 20 March.

BARCELONA – MESSI , HENRY , ETO’O – PLAYERS TO WATCH OUT FOR:

Messi is just aged 20, which is absolutely astonishing. His raw pace, vision, passing, and close control make him an absolutely formidable opponent.

Henry is a talented individual capable of demonstrating extraordinary skills whilst lighting up every ground he deigns with his presence. A true superstar who has wowed audiences both domestically and internationally. Henry is in superb touch and defenders will have trouble stopping him.

Eto’o has also been in top form this season and he will definitely give barca an edge with an encounter with an english side.Eto’o has showed his qualities this season and showed every club what he is capable of.

 

MANCHESTER UNITED:

If any year will be the one for Man U, this is the one. Besides having the best player in the English league, Christiano Ronaldo, their defence is unbelievable. They have allowed so few goals and continue to pressure the opposition’s defence, giving their offence many chances to score. Man U’s front group of Rooney and Tevez are so quick and fluid together.

Manchester United look unstoppable at the moment despite their 4-1 loss to liverpool last week the English Giants look to be claiming the champions league again this season.

Inter Milan midfielder Patrick Vieira is convinced Manchester United will win the Champions League again this season.

The ex-Arsenal star said: “They have shown they have what it takes to win it again.

“They have underlined how strong their hunger is for more success. In fact, they have what it takes to win every competition.

“I’ve been watching some of their league games on television and they have been winning game after game and that is not easy to do in the English game.

 

“In the last two seasons they have been difficult to catch.”

 

Vieira believes it is the Fergie factor that keeps them at the top.

 

The Frenchman added: “Somebody has to drive the team every day, every week, every year and he is the main man at the club, the one who gives the club the winning spirit.

 

“He’s been there for so long and has won every thing there is to win. Yet year after year he keeps winning games . . . and wanting to win more.”

 

MANCHESTER UNITED – RONALDO – PLAYER TO WATCH OUT FOR:

Paul Scholes says his Manchester United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo is the best player in the world on current form.

“The amount of goals and the amount of assists he’s had has been frightening,” Scholes told Football Focus.

“I haven’t seen anybody take players on, score goals and make goals like he has in this first half of the season, so he rightfully deserves that tag.”

Ronaldo, truly a great player has been firing for the reds when they need him most. Ronaldo will be a key factor to uniteds success in the quarter finals.

 

CHELSEA:

John Terry believes that Chelsea being on the receiving end of Guus Hiddink’s boot in recent weeks has been key to their revitalised form. Hiddink is far more demanding than Luiz Felipe Scolari, his predecessor, having introduced stricter disciplinary procedures, made the players work much harder in training and urged them to take greater personal responsibility for their performances. The Dutchman extended some leeway to his squad yesterday by giving them two days off, although several reported for duty anyway.

“Since the new manager has come in here we’ve played very well and got the right results,” Terry said. “He has changed a few things, given a few of us a kick up the backside which I think we needed.”

Chelsea’s changed attitude has enabled them to reach the Champions League quarter-finals and the FA Cup semi-finals, as well as re-emerge as genuine Barclays Premier League title contenders, four points behind Manchester United. Terry believes that Chelsea can push the champions all the way, just as they did last season when, after streaking ahead, United had to beat Wigan Athletic on the final day of the season to be sure of retaining their title.

“We’ve got to win our games and push them right to the end,” the Chelsea captain said. “We have shown our strength and character in the last month, and if we keep doing that we can apply some pressure to them. If they slip up, they know we’re coming up behind them.

In addition to the Hiddink effect another unquestionable factor in Chelsea’s revival has been the return from injury of Michael Essien, the dynamic Ghana midfield player. Essien has scored a crucial goal in each of the matches in which he has started since returning from knee ligament damage, a remarkable feat given that he had been out for six months.

Chelsea are one of the hot favourites to win the champions league this year.

 

CHELSEA – DROGBA -  PLAYER TO WATCH OUT FOR:

Didier is an experienced player, as a striker you need even more confidence than players in other positions – and the way you get it is with goals. Strikers want to score and when they do, they feel good.

“Didier looks more happy now because he is spending more time on the pitch. It’s great that he’s back fit again. You always need games to get yourself really back on form when you’ve been out for a while. He’s getting them now.

“Him being back on song can play a big part in the remainder of the season. For us the season is still very much alive.

“The change of manager has had a positive effect.

“We have to keep going n We have this momentum and we need to keep it going as long as we can.”

Drogba has been in sublime form after hiddinks arrival at Chelsea, and the Ivorian looks to continue his awesome form and take Chelsea to the champion’s league final.

Juventus target Chelsea Winger.

Juventus are lining up an £11milion summer swoop for Chelsea forward Florent Malouda.

The France international has struggled to make an impact in his two seasons at Stamford Bridge after signing from Lyon for £13.5m.

Italian giants Juve, managed by former Blues boss Claudio Ranieri, are now reported to be considering offering Malouda a fresh start.

They are eyeing reinforcements after Czech Republic veteran Pavel Nedved announced he is retiring at the end of the season.

A Juve source told The Sun: ‘We have been looking at a number of options and Malouda is very high on this list. Let’s see what happens at the end of the season.’

Juventus Target Florent Malouda

Malouda, 28, has only started two games under new Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink and may welcome the chance to move to Italy

Chelsea to face Arsenal in the F.A cup semi-final.

Arsenal’s new-found resilience was underlined as Arsene Wenger’s side staged a late rally to win an ill-tempered clash with Hull and book a Wembley FA Cup semi-final date with Chelsea.

Nick Barmby’s 13th-minute strike had given Hull hope of performing an encore to their September victory at the Emirates in the English Premier League. But Robin van Persie and William Gallas both found the net in the final quarter-hour to send the Gunners through to the last four of the world’s oldest knockout competition, as well as ensuring the club’s first appearance at the new Wembley.

Gallas will not have the chance to lead Arsenal out at the national stadium, having been stripped of the captaincy earlier this season, but the France defender underlined his value to the club with his headed winner, six minutes from time.

Arsenal had received a pre-match boost with Andrey Arshavin being passed fit to start. The Russian playmaker had been unplayable against Blackburn on Saturday, but neither he nor Arsenal were to perform with the same fluency as in that 4-0 romp and it was little surprise that Hull took the lead through Barmby, an erstwhile star for their north London rivals Tottenham.

Arsenal’s defence hesitated when confronted with a long ball from Andy Dawson, allowing Barmby to find the net with a volley and the help of a deflection off Swiss internationl Johan Djourou. Gunners goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski, offered a chance to impress in place of the rested Manuel Almunia, then produced a fingertips save to prevent Hull’s Brazilian playmaker, Geovanni, from doubling the lead from a free-kick.

Gradually the Gunners began to assert themselves and efforts from Arshavin and Abou Diaby went close before van Persie forced Hull keeper Boaz Myhill into a fine save with a perfectly-executed free-kick from 25 yards. The Dutch striker was not to be denied, however, finally finding the net with 16 minutes left thanks to the persistence of substitute Nicklas Bendtner.

The big Dane’s dogged determination enabled him to work the ball to Arshavin who provided the cutback from which van Persie fired Arsenal level.  Bendtner then had a close-range shot blocked behind by Michael Ricketts but Arsenal avoided a replay with six minutes left, with Gallas heading home the winner despite Hull protests that he was in an offside position.

Chelsea boss feeling confident about title race!

Premier League leaders United currently hold a four-point advantage and a game in hand on Hiddink’s side.

But the Dutchman claims the Blues will not give up on the title — even if it appears destined to remain at Old Trafford.

He said: “The task we are facing is extremely difficult.

Hiddink believes his rejuvinated side are good enough to beat manchester united and claim the league title since jose mourinho left!!

“Don’t forget that Manchester have a game in hand and, moreover, they have a lot of experience of winning the league.

“But all I can promise is that Chelsea will fight to the bitter end.”

Hiddink has already guided the Blues to four Premier League wins since replacing Phil Scolari.

And Russia’s national coach insists his methods have been fully embraced by his Chelsea players.

He added: “Everybody knows my way — work, work and more work.

“That has been the principle since my first day in London and so far it is working.

“We started in fourth place in the Premier League, now we are second.”

Chelsea VS Manchester City. Full time score : chelsea 1 manchester city 0

Chelsea: Cech, Bosingwa, Carvalho, Terry, Cole, Ballack, Essien, Lampard, Deco, Anelka, Drogba. Subs: Hilario, Mikel, Malouda, Quaresma, Kalou, Alex, Belletti.

Man City: Given, Richards, Onuoha, Dunne, Bridge, W-Ph’lips, Ireland, Zabaleta, Elano, Robinho, and Caicedo. Subs: Hart, Bojinov, Garrido, Fernandes, Evans, Etuhu, Berti.

Ref: M Riley

 

Michael Essien scored on his league return to give Chelsea the advantage.

Micheal Essien scores against Manchester city who have been struggling to find form. Essien scored the only goal of the match.

A solitary strike from Michael Essien, on his first Premier League start since regaining full fitness, proved to be enough to secure the points and keeper Guus Hiddink’s unbeaten record intact.

On a glorious afternoon in west London it took less than two minutes for the hosts to find the back of net.

Frank Lampard’s early effort was chalked off by a linesman’s flag, but it offered an early warning to City.

Mark Hughes’ men failed to learn their lesson, though, with Nicolas Anleka and Ricardo Carvalho going close before Essien forced the breakthrough on 17 minutes.

The Ghanaian midfielder was left wide open on the edge of the box and, after being spotted by a Lampard free-kick, looped the ball over the stranded Shay Given in spectacular style.

Felipe Caicedo did scuff a good opportunity narrowly wide on a rare occasion City threatened, but Petr Cech remained untested at the break.

Chelsea began the second half much the brighter and were unfortunate not to build on their lead.

Didier Drogba was proving to be a constant menace and was only stopped from keeping his fine scoring run going by some fantastic defending from Nedum Onuoha and an impressive reflex stop by Shay Given.

City did pose more of an attacking threat as the game wore on, but it was Hiddink’s side who came closest to forcing a second.

Anelka drilled into the side-netting after bursting into the box and substitute Florent Malouda saw a low drive hacked off the line by Richard Dunne as the clock ticked down.

 

 

Chelsea should have won by a bigger margin but a combination of poor finishing and fine goalkeeping by Shay Given kept the scoreline more than respectable for disappointing City.

The players want Guus Hiddink to stay at Chelsea

The campaign to keep Guus Hiddink at Chelsea continues to gather pace.

The Dutchman insists he will quit the Blues in the summer to concentrate on his job with the Russian national side, but there is growing pressure on him to stay.

“I would love for him to say he is staying for three years,” said Michael Ballack. “Everybody in the club and around the club can feel he is a great manager.”

Goalkeeper Petr Cech added: “He is a very good coach and we want him to stay. But it is a difficult political situation and we will have to wait to see what happens.”

 

Guus Hiddink has underlined his intention to honour the terms of his initial agreement with Chelsea and leave the club at the end of the season – regardless of any success he might have in the meantime.

The fine start to his temporary stint at Stamford Bridge, encompassing a sequence of victories only ended by the midweek Champions League draw with Juventus has led to an increasing clamour for the Blues to extend their partnership with the Dutchman to next term and beyond.

But Hiddink has frequently stressed the importance of his role with Russia, a job he intends to continue in a full-time capacity at the end of his Chelsea contract. He said: “I made it very clear a few weeks ago – and again recently – what the future will be (for me) after May 30th. I don’t have to do that again.”

Senior stars Petr Cech and Michael Ballack have this week joined the chorus for Hiddink to stay on, insisting they would welcome a permanent deal.

Hiddink said: “They might change their minds about me when I put them on the bench or not even in the squad

“But there is a good atmosphere of work here and we are very demanding of each other. If they are happy with the way we are working and it’s going well with results it’s all okay.

“I have been very happy not just with the regular starters but with all the other players, who I’ve been watching and observing. Everyone is committed.

Hiddink’s side take on Manchester City on Sunday, while Liverpool attempt to keep their own title bid afloat against pace-setters Manchester United on Saturday.

By the time the Blues kick off, the trophy race may be down to just two – with defeat for Rafael Benitez’s side signalling the end of their realistic interest in the title.

Chelsea players train with hiddink

The Dutchman previously predicted that Chelsea would need to win every match to have any chance of catching Manchester United and, while he has duly delivered with nine points from three matches, it has made no impression on a gap to United that could be 10 points by Sunday morning.

“Our first concern is our game of course against Manchester City,” said Hiddink. “We have the possibility to watch. It will be a beautiful clash to watch and if Liverpool can do some harm then great because it will make for a more exciting end to the season. But United look very determined and if they win then they can do the same to Liverpool.

 

“When I said we could win the league we were on schedule at that time but United have not made any mistakes since and neither are we. Until it is impossible, then we will fight.”

With senior Chelsea players, including Peter Cech and Michael Ballack, having expressed their hope that Hiddink will stay, the 62-year-old again reiterated his intention to return full-time to the Russia manager’s job at the end of the season.

“I have made very clear a few weeks ago and more recently what will happen after the 30th May and we stick with that,” he said. “If there is a good atmosphere then we like that and the attitude of players towards me is good.

“I didn’t find any isolated group of players within the team. It’s easy when you have won games to say as a manager that it has improved but I have not seen what happened before. It is more interesting to see the reaction when things have not gone well in one or two games than it is when you have won a few.”

Of a rejuvenated Didier Drogba, he added: “I don’t know what is different. I only saw him in the World Cup and after not so much in person but he is very committed for the team, he has responded very well to the team and contributes very well in the team.”

 

Chelsea V.S Manchester City

Chelsea v Manchester City

Sunday 15 March 2009, Stamford Bridge

Kickoff: 13:30                                                            

Chelsea beat Portsmouth 1-0 away in their last league outing, continuing a run of four straight Premier League matches without a loss.

In their last five matches, Chelsea have won three, drawn one and lost one, earning themselves ten points from the latest fifteen on offer. Te Blues found the back of the net four times and conceded three times in these matches, as they currently sit 2nd in the league, seven points behind leaders Manchester United and equal on points with 3rd placed Liverpool.

Chelsea may be without Deco due to his hamstring injury, as well as Joe Cole on a long-term injury.

Manchester City defeated Aston Villa 2-0 at home in their last league outing, their first league win in four matches.

In their last five, Man City have won two, drawn one, and lost two, picking up seven points from the fifteen available. Manchester City scored four and conceded four in these matches, as they find themselves 8th in the league, four points behind 7th placed West Ham and equal on points with 9th placed Wigan.

Man City have a lenghty injury list, and will be without Bellamy (knee), Petrov (knee), Johnson (groin), and Sturridge (groin), although Benjani Mwaruwari, Micah Richards and Robinho could all be fit for this clash.

Chelsea beat Man City 3-1 earlier this season, and in last season’s Chelsea vs Man City fixture, the Blues were victorious with a massive 6-0 margin.

Chelsea will be on a high after their midweek aggregate win over Juventus to progress to the Champions League quarter-finals, and will have had more time to rest and prepare than Man City, who face Danish side AaB Aalborg in the last-16 first leg UEFA Cup tie on Thursday evening.

The Blues haven’t lost a match since new manager Guus Hiddink took over in February, and on current form this streak looks to continue against Man City. Although they have posted some shaky results at home this season, Chelsea currently holds the 5th best home record in the league whilst Manchester City holds 5th worst away form, having only won once away all season.

With a great run of recent form and the home crowd behind them, Chelsea will go into this match as strong favorites. Although Manchester City posted an impressive victory over 4th placed Aston Villa a week ago, their recent inconsistent form – especially on the road – Manchester city might give Chelsea some problems here and there but Chelsea will surely grab the win as Guus realizes the importance of the last few fixtures in the league and will most certainly grab the victory, but Manchester city cannot be counted out and could lead the match to a draw which is not good for Chelsea’s title chase.

We will have to wait and see what really happens.

Jose Mourinho could be headed towards spain!!

Jose Mourinho wants to take over at Real Madrid after deciding to quit Inter Milan at the end of the season. Sources in Italy have told Standard Sport that the 46-year-old does not believe the time is right for a return to English football and will reject any approach from Chelsea or Manchester City.

Relations between Mourinho and the Inter board have become strained as the club’s hierarchy demand instant success in Europe.

The situation will have intensified after Inter were knocked out by United after a 2-0 defeat at Old Trafford in the second leg of their Champions League last-16 clash.

The Portuguese has also had an ongoing battle with the Italian media ever since taking charge at the San Siro last summer and feels he will have nothing left to prove should his team win the League, regardless of their exit in Europe.

Jose Mourinho could go to spain after not having the perfect relations with italy's Inter Milan.

Mourinho also faces being interviewed by Greater Manchester Police after they received a complaint from a fan who claimed he had been punched by the coach as he was standing by the Inter team bus outside Old Trafford, although the club insist nothing untoward happened.

Although City are likely to offer Mourinho a fortune in salary and transfer funds should Mark Hughes depart in the summer, the Portuguese has now set his sights on a return to Spain as he looks to continue to build a successful career in a variety of countries.

Chelsea insist Russiacoach Guus Hiddink is only in temporary charge until the end of the season and a significant section of the Blues faithful would want their former boss back in charge.

Mourinho won four League titles, a Champions League and a UEFA Cup in his time with Porto and Chelsea, who sacked him in September 2007 amid rumours of a falling out with owner Roman Abramovich. His Inter side are currently seven points ahead of Juventus in Serie A.

A source said: “It is not about money with Mourinho – Chelsea made him a very rich man when they sacked him. He wants titles and does not think he should be undermined by the board as could happen in Italy. Despite his links with Barcelona, he would have no problem taking over at Madrid.”

Mourinho worked under Bobby Robson at a variety of clubs during the 1990s including Barcelona, where he earned the nickname ‘The Translator’ before embarking on a coaching career. It is thought Mourinho’s ideal return to England would be to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson at United.

Drgoba on fire! Chelsea through to the quarter finals of the champions league after defeating Juventus 3-2 on aggregate.

Drogba strikes again!! For Chelsea.

The Blues went into the last-16 return leg with a one-goal advantage but that was soon wiped out by Vincenzo Iaquinta’s 19th-minute strike.

But the visitors levelled moments after referee Alberto Undiano had ruled that a free-kick by Didier Drogba had not crossed the goal line in the 44th minute

The debate became academic in first-half stoppage time as Frank Lampard’s shot came down off the underside of the bar for Michael Essien to bundle home.

But Juventus restored their lead on the night when Undiano awarded the Italian side a 74th-minute penalty for handball by Juliano Belletti.

However, Chelsea battled back for a second time when Drogba prodded home a cross from Belletti in the 83rd minute to give the Blues a 3-2 aggregate win.

The Serie A giants knew an early goal was a requirement if they were to get themselves back into a tie that kicked-off in Chelsea‘s favour thanks to Drogba’s match-winner at Stamford Bridge.

Pavel Nedved was twice down injured in the opening eight minutes. The first time after a collision with Essien and the second when he came off worst in a clash with Nicolas Anelka

Essien made a classy return after scoring against juventus and knocking them out of the champions league!

.

He was replaced in the 12th minute by Hasan Salihamidzic after failing to respond to lengthy treatment on the sidelines.

Dissapointing end for Gianluigi Buffon and Juventus as they lose to chelsea 3-2 on aggregate.

Nedved’s loss as a bitter blow to the Juve cause as he had been the architect of their fine start.

But

Chelsea‘s worst fears were realised in the 19th minute when Iaquinta put the Italians level on aggregate.

The Juve forward was put clear by David Trezeguet and lashed an angled dive beyond Petr Cech.

Guus Hiddink’s side were guilty of far too many misplaced passes as they tried to get themselves back on level terms on the night.

Instead it was Juve who continued to set the pace of the game and John Terry had to be alert to keep Trezeguet from getting on the end of a Del Piero pass in the 39th minute.

However, in the 41st minute, Anelka found himself with the perfect chance to test Buffon when the ball fell at his feet on the edge of the penalty area.

But despite having the luxury of time and space, the Frenchman’s effort almost hit the corner flag.

It had been a dreadful display by the English side who had shown a complete lack of ideas and invention in the opening half. But it was all to change inside two crazy minutes.

Chelsea were at the centre of controversy in the 44th minute when a free-kick from Drogba was clearly over the goal line but not given by Undiano or his assistants.

But seconds later it was immaterial as Frank Lampard’s shot hit the underside of the bar and Essien, playing his first game since being injured last September, bundled the ball home for the equaliser.

Essien’s goal had capped a fine comeback for the midfielder who ruptured his knee ligaments on international duty with Ghana last September.

His goal left Juventus needing to score twice to progress to the quarter-finals at Chelsea‘s expense.

Chelsea were understandably put under pressure by the Italians when the second half began.

Former Blues boss Claudio Ranieri stood inside the technical area as his side toiled away without success.

The Stadio Olimpico had lost its first-half fervour and Chelsea took advantage of the change in atmosphere to put more pressure on the home side.

In the 54th minute, Giorgio Chiellini was shown a yellow card for upending Ballack but this time Drogba’s free-kick fell kindly into the waiting arms of Buffon.

The home crowd then voiced their disapproval when Ranieri replaced goal-scorer Iaquinta with Sebastian Giovinco in the 61st minute.

Cech was then shown a yellow card after a shot from Giovinco deflected off Jose Bosingwa.

The Chelsea ‘keeper handled the ball outside the penalty area as he tried to prevent it going for a corner.

In the 65th minute Cech atoned for his error with a flying save to keep out a header from Trezeguet.

Del Piero’s cross had eluded the Chelsea defence and although Trezeguet found power with his header, Cech was equal to the task.

Moments later Chelsea replaced hero Essien with Juliano Belletti. The Ghanaian midfielder was clearly not fit enough to finish the game.

Juventus hopes were hampered further when Chiellini was sent off for a second bookable offence after fouling Drogba.

But referee Undiano was then at the centre of more controversy for awarding a penalty to Juventus in the 74th minute after Belletti was adjudged to have handled a free-kick by Del Piero.

The Juve striker sent Cech the wrong way from the spot to give the Serie A side renewed hope.

But it was soon crushed by Drogba who side-footed a low cross from Belletti into the net in the 83rd minute to cap a fine night for Chelsea.

Teams

Juventus Buffon, Grygera, Mellberg, Chiellini, Molinaro,Tiago, Marchisio, Nedved (Salihamidzic 13),Iaquinta (Giovinco 61), Del Piero, Trezeguet (Amauri 79).

Subs Not Used: Manninger, Zebina, Poulsen, Ariaudo.

Sent Off: Chiellini (71).

Booked: Salihamidzic, Chiellini, Del Piero.

Goals: Iaquinta 19, Del Piero 74 pen.

Chelsea Cech, Bosingwa, Terry, Alex (Carvalho 88),Ashley Cole, Mikel, Ballack, Essien (Belletti 66), Lampard, Drogba, Anelka.

Subs Not Used: Hilario, Malouda, Deco, Kalou, Mancienne.

Booked: Cech, Drogba, Ashley Cole, Anelka.

Goals: Essien 45, Drogba 83.

Agg (2-3)

Att: 28,500

Ref: Alberto Undiano Mallenco (Spain).

Chelsea and Juventus – Preview

Tuesday 10 March 2009, Stadio Olimpico di Torino

Kickoff: 19:45

 

Juventus

Juventus lost 1-0 away to Chelsea in the first leg of the Chelsea – Juventus fixture, their first loss in nine games of this season’s competition (including preliminary rounds).

They have won four (one away from home), drawn four (three away from home) and lost one (away from home) of their nine matches on route to the first round knockout stage. Juventus have scored 12 goals (5 away from home) and conceded 5 goals (4 away from home) and finished as winners of Group H.

Juventus will be without Mauro Camoranesi, Mohamed Sissoko, Paolo De Ceglie and Cristiano Zanetti, whilst Marco Marchionni is a doubt.

 

Chelsea

Chelsea won 1-0 at Stamford Brige against Juventus in their last Champions League match, their fourth win this season in the competition.

They have won four (all at home), drawn two and lost one of their seven matches so far. Chelsea have found the back of the net 10 times (8 at home) and conceded 5 goals (1 at home) in this season’s competition and finished as runners-up to A.S. Roma in their group.

Chelsea will be without Nicolas Anelka and Deco, but Ricardo Carvalho and Michael Essien are both fit again and will be likely to feature.

Prediction

After Chelsea’s 1-0 victory in the first leg encounter, Juventus will have their work cut out for them if they are to progress to the next round. To make matters worse for them, Juve have not win a single of their last eight matches against English opposition.

Chelsea seem to be flourishing again under new manager Guus Hiddink, and with Didier Drogba finding his goal-scoring form as well – hitting the back of the net three times in the five matches since the Dutchman took over the club – the Blues look like a tough prospect to beat.

Even with the home advantage, Juventus will only be the most minor of favourites in this encounter. Although they have not lost any of their last 15 home matches in all European competitions, a victory for Juventus does not look too likely against a strong Chelsea squad that has found its feet again in both domestic and international competitions.

Chelsea have not won a single of their last six away Champions League matches, and so on the night, a draw between the two sides looks to be the most likely result, with Chelsea progressing through to the next round thanks to their victory at Stamford Bridge in the first-leg encounter.

Lampard fears Chelsea may not win the league title after all.

Frank Lampard fears the Barclays Premier League title may be out of Chelsea’s reach this season.

Guus Hiddink, in charge of the Blues until the summer, has given the side a new lease of life, with three wins on the bounce in the league moving them into second place and within seven points of leaders Manchester United.

Frank Lampard

However, United – on a run of 11 successive Premier League victories and with a game in hand over their rivals – look unstoppable at the moment and few would bet against them clinching another title.

Lampard insists Chelsea will not give up the chase but admits second place may be the best they can hope for.

“Our results since the arrival of Hiddink, especially the important victories against Aston Villa and Wigan, have put us back on the rails but there is still work to do,” the England international told Aujourd’hui Sport.

“The title is very probably settled, even if we intend to fight all the way. There is no question of us giving the crown to Manchester United and we are going to believe until it is mathematically impossible.

“And then we will do everything to assure ourselves of second place, which would qualify us automatically for the Champions League next season.”

Chelsea turned to the experienced Hiddink after sacking Luiz Felipe Scolari last month and the team’s results have improved immediately.

Lampard has showered the 62-year-old with praise.

“Our performances have been disappointing too many times this season but the new coach has given us a boost,” Lampard added.

“He gives off something. Respect, of course, but also a certain aura.

“All the great coaches I have worked with have that fear factor about them and Hiddink is one of those.

“He is a great coach who has experience at great clubs and at international level and someone who has also picked up good results in all his posts.

“Recently, we have found our old spirit. We have seen in our last two or three matches that our determination and fighting qualities have returned.

“Guus always says the right thing. He knows what needs to be said and when. He is class.”

Hiddink has been happy to partner Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba together up front, something Scolari was not prepared to do.

The two strikers are starting to hit it off and Drogba looks more like his old self after getting his fitness back following a knee injury that ruined the early part of his campaign.

But it is Anelka who has really stolen the headlines this season, according to Lampard.

“Nico is so dangerous,” Lampard said.

“When he is on top form, he is world class, as he has demonstrated several times this season already.”

Chelsea and Manchester City battle for “Russian Ronaldinho”

Chelsea and Manchester City are set for a battle for the ‘Russian Ronaldinho’ Yuri Zhirkov according to reports in Russia. Zhirkov, 25-years-old, is one of Europe’s top left sided players after starring for Russia at Euro 2008.

Zhirkov

According to the reports Chelsea have the edge in signing the Russian due to the close relationship Guus Hiddink holds with the CSKA Moscow star. However, with the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Chelsea job, City could lure the winger with a large financial package.

However the winger has also recently been surrounded by speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich.

“The latest Chelsea News plus other news from around the Premiership”

Please Follow the Link for more chelsea news and other news from the premiership.

http://worldtv.com/chelsea_news_tv/

Drogba cant stop scoring! the ivorian has been influential since Hiddink took charge of the Blues. Drogba scores in the F.A cup quarter final against Coventry

Drogba in top Form

Scorers – Drogba 15, Alex 72

Chelsea reached their third FA Cup semi-final in four seasons as goals from Didier Drogba and Alex emphasised their superiority against Coventry City at the Ricoh Arena.

Drogba maintained his surge in form since the appointment of interim manager

Guus Hiddink by netting his sixth goal of the campaign after 15 minutes. Then Alex put the game out of Coventry’s reach 17 minutes from time after converting a cross from substitute Ricardo Quaresma.

Chelsea crashed out at the same stage last season, losing to another Coca-Cola Championship side in Barnsley. But there was never any danger of another shock against Chris Coleman’s side as Chelsea dominated for almost the entire 90 minutes.

Frank Lampard was given time and space to dictate matters in midfield as Chelsea maintained their 100 per cent record under Hiddink, while the revitalised Drogba was always a handful for the shaky-looking Coventry centre-back pairing of Ben Turner and Scott Dann.

The Ivory Coast international put the visitors ahead when he outmuscled home defender Turner before firing in a shot from a tight angle – his sixth goal of the campaign. “It was good to score a goal and get through to the semi-finals,” Drogba said. “

It was a good game for us and to get to go back to Wembley.”

The win was Hiddink’s fifth in as many games since taking charge last month, and the Dutchman has Drogba to thank for playing a significant part. Reinvigorated since Hiddink’s arrival at Stamford Bridge, Drogba has now scored three times in five games.

“He is dangerous. He is working very hard and he is good for the team,” said Hiddink. “There are still some little things that he needs to improve on, but he is working on them in sessions outside of training which he likes.”

Hiddink paid Coventry the compliment of fielding the same side which had won at Portsmouth in the Barclays Premier League in midweek. The line-up included defender Ashley Cole who had received an £80 fixed penalty fine for being drunk and disorderly in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Inside three minutes Drogba, who had scored the winner at Fratton Park, missed a golden chance to break the deadlock. A long clearance by Petr Cech picked out the Chelsea striker, who easily turned past Turner to find himself with only Keiran Westwood to beat. But Drogba, who was operating as the lone front player, screwed his shot wide of the far post when he should have at least hit the target.

But after 15 minutes Drogba took advantage of hesitancy in the Coventry defence to put Chelsea ahead. There looked to be little danger, but Turner hesitated, was muscled off the ball by Drogba and the striker calmly took the ball around Westwood before drilling his shot into the net. The Ivory Coast international made a point of running to the substitutes’ bench to celebrate with the fit-again Michael Essien.

Chelsea looked as if they could breach the Coventry back four at will. Lampard picked out the run of Jose Bosingwa and his cross was cut back to Ballack, whose fierce shot was blocked.

Drogba Scores Again!!

Westwood then had to be alert to deny Lampard a 16th goal of the season when he tipped over a dipping 30-yard free-kick after Henderson had fouled Cole.

Hiddink made a half-time substitution, bringing on Quaresma in place of Salomon Kalou. Chelsea started where they left off, knocking the ball around in confident fashion, and Drogba volleyed wide at the near post. Chris Coleman, the Coventry manager, made his first change after 59 minutes, with former Hibernian midfielder Guillaume Beuzelin replacing Doyle.

The home side tried to build up some momentum in front of a 31,407 crowd – the highest ever for a football match at the stadium – but they still seldom troubled the Chelsea back four.

Essien made his long-awaited comeback from a knee-ligament injury after 65 minutes, coming on in place of Mikel to great cheers from the 5,500 Chelsea contingent.

Alex then made sure of victory for Chelsea with his second goal of the season. Quaresma broke clear down the right and spotted the run of Alex who calmly drilled the ball past Westwood

 

 

Deco linked with Juventus

The Sun has reported that Juventus are ready to spend £6million to end Deco’s unsuccesful spell at Chelsea.

He was signed from Barcelona for £8m in the summer by Phil Scolari, who managed him for Portugal.

Deco might join the italians following nedveds departure from the italian giants

But Deco has failed to find his feet and Scolari has now been replaced at Chelsea by Guus Hiddink.

Juve host Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday having lost 1-0 in the first leg.

Reports in Italy suggest ex-Blues boss and current Juve chief Claudio Ranieri wants the 31-year-old to replace Pavel Nedved, who is expected to retire in the summer.

Juve host Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday after losing1-0 in the first leg.

Manchester United and Chelsea through to the semi-finals of the F.A Cup.

The 6th-round trip to London looked like a tricky assignment for Sir Alex Ferguson’s all-conquering side. But they simply brushed the Cottagers aside with a supremely dominant display.

After an even opening spell United went ahead on 20 minutes when Carlos Tevez headed home at the back post from a corner. And 15 minutes later the Argentine doubled both his tally and United’s lead with a superb 25-yarder into the top corner of Mark Schwarzer’s net.

United earn a 4-0 win over fulham in the F.A cup quarterfinal

Five minutes after the interval the tie was over as a contest as Wayne Rooney curled a low right-footer past Schwarzer from the edge of the box. And Ji-Sung Park completed the rout nine minutes from time when he intercepted a loose Fulham pass before firing home from 20 yards out.

Earlier in the day Didier Drogba and Alex had earned Chelsea a place in the last four after a 2-0 win at Championship side Coventry. Guus Hiddink retained his 100% record as Chelsea coach as a goal in each half gave the Blues a reasonably comfortable passage into the semi-finals.

Drogba capitalised on some poor defending to give his side an early lead before Brazilian centre-half Alex popped up with 18 minutes remaining to seal victory.

Drogba scored against coventry in the F.A cup quarterfinal

Drogba fired just wide in the second minute after latching on to Petr Cech’s long clearance but the hosts’ defence failed to heed the warning and Coventry found themselves behind after a quarter of an hour.

Michael Turner and Scott Dann failed to deal with Jose Bosingwa’s hopeful hoist forward and Drogba capitalised on the centre-backs’ hesitation, rounding Kieron Westwood before firing home left-footed into the roof of the net.

Chelsea were dominant, but the hosts had their first sight of goal in the 25th minute, when Leon Best raced away from Alex and skipped inside John Terry before firing horribly high and wide.

Turner atoned for his part in Chelsea’s opener when he blocked Michael Ballack’s close range effort following Bosingwa’s cut-back before Westwood tipped over Lampard’s 30-yard free-kick 10 minutes before the break.

Michael Essien came off the bench midway through the second period for his first appearance since August and things got even better for Chelsea in the 72nd minute when they killed the tie with their second of the afternoon.

The Blues broke following a Coventry set-piece with devastating pace and substitute Ricardo Quaresma’s curled cross was slotted home by Alex, unchallenged in the middle of the hosts’ box.

Chelsea overtake liverpools 2nd spot. Now to catch united.

Sir Alex expected to drop points.

Chelsea managed to overtake liverpools 2nd spot after defeating wigan athletic by 2 goals to 1, with lampard with a late header stuck in the 91st minute. Liverpool were defeated by middlesbrough by 2 goals to 0 which gave chelsea the opportunity to overtake their place. Chelsea advanced to a spot higher with some luck and a touch of effort. Chelsea lead infront of liverpool by goal difference. If this influencial performance continues chelsea might go on to win the league title , with Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said he expected there to be tricky moments between now and the end of the season after seeing his side extend their Premier League lead.

“The important thing is we keep the form going,” said Ferguson.

 

“It’s an advantage (being top). It’snot a great advantage because there are still 10 games left. But it’s always better to be top of the league than anywhere else.”

If manchester united drop vital points chelsea will surely take advantage of that , as hiddink will go all out to secure 3 points , and lead his side to another victory. Chelsea have won all matches since hiddink took charge of the blues. Guus Hiddink does NOT believe it is all over.Chelsea were not impressive in beating Portsmouth in midweek with a late goal from Didier Drogba but it was a fourth successive win and the Dutchman has them looking a stronger league title challenge to Manchester United than fading Liverpool.Hiddink knows itt will be difficult to stop manchester united from claiming further trophies to add to the league cup they grabbed last weekend  but he has promised chelsea will do their best to spoil sir alex ferguson’s quin quest.

He said: ” i am not naive. They have a very good squad, but as long as there is a possibilty, you never know. What i like about my team at chelsea is that this team which does not give up. I liked the way the team reacted against wigan when we conceded the goal and i liked the way we fought all the way against portsmouth.”

Hiddink also provided some hints as to how chelsea may rebuild this summer.

Guus hiddink hopes for the best to come in chelsea's upcoming fixtures , while roman abramovic intends to rebuild chelsea at the end of the season.

Looking with admiration at uniteds squad he said: ” you need 3 groups : an older group with experience , 28 to 32 , a mid group who are 23 to 27 and then the youngsters from 18 to 23. If the balance is right in those 3 groups , you can mainain your position as United have done for many years”

Hiddink seems to be the right man for this job.

Chelsea’s Ashely cole arrested!

Chelsea and England defender Ashley Cole was arrested for being drunk and disorderly outside a London bar overnight Thursday.

The 28-year-old left-back was detained and held in custody for some three hours after reportedly swearing at police outside a bar and restaurant in London’s plush South Kensington area, near Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge ground.

He was later given a spot fine of 80 pounds and released.

“At about 2.15am today, a man was arrested in Brampton Road, South Kensington, on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly and taken to a central London police station,” a police spokesman said when asked about the incident.

“He was later issued with a fixed penalty notice for being drunk and disorderly and released at 5.37am”.

The spokesman did not directly identify the man, in line with regular police policy.

Ashely cole was arrested after being drunk , the left back will be fined £164000.

A spokesman for Chelsea confirmed that Cole had been detained but added: “We will want to establish all the facts before commenting.”

Earlier in the evening, Cole attended a charity fundraising event co-organized by his club. He then went to the bar with Chelsea and England captain John Terry and other teammates, according to its general manager.

Cole’s wife Cheryl, a member of pop group Girls Aloud, is currently climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania for charity with a team of other celebrities.

Cole has a bad boy reputation both on and off the pitch, last year, he was widely condemned for turning his back on a referee while being booked after an ugly tackle.

Premier League News Link:

<iframe src=”http://worldtv.com/embed/chelsea_news_tv?width=600&height=450” width=”600″ height=”450″ frameBorder=”0″ scrolling=”no”></iframe>

This Link contains the latest premier league news video (includes chelsea news). The video is updated very often , and brings you the latest news just a click away.

Drogba does it again , this time against portsmouth , plus other team news.

A late winner by Didier Drogba saw Chelsea remain second ahead of Liverpool in the Premier League with a 1-0 win at Portsmouth in atrocious conditions at Fratton Park.

Drogba, who had failed to get the better of Sol Campbell all evening, finally managed to settle the contest in the 79th minute.

Jose Bosingwa’s low cross eluded the Pompey defence and Drogba sent a curling drive into the bottom corner for the winner.

Didier drogba scored the only goal of the match which was struck in the 79th minute.

Liverpool kept up the pressure on the Blues with a 2-0 win over Sunderland at Anfield.

David Ngog scored his first league goal for the Reds before Yossi Benayoun doubled the lead to go within four points of Manchester United, who have two games in hand.

Nicklas Bendtner scored twice and hit the post as Arsenal won 3-1 at West Bromwich Albion.

Arsenal made a positive start and needed only four minutes to end their recent goal drought through Bendtner.

Yet Albion needed only three minutes to draw level through Chris Brunt whose low free-kick skidded through the defensive wall and past the dive of Manuel Almunia.

After 38 minutes some dreadful defending allowed Kolo Toure to restore Arsenal’s lead from Andrei Arshavin’s free-kick and a minute before half-time Bendtner struck again.

Wolves extended their lead at the top of the Coca-Cola Championship after Sylvan Ebanks-Blake held his nerve to convert a penalty and claim a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace.

Preston stay fourth despite a
2-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest thanks to Rob Earnshaw’s double. Jon Parkin netted for Preston.

Chris Porter marked his full home debut with his first goals for Derby but the Rams squandered a 2-0 lead to draw 2-2 with promotion chasing Swansea, Angel Rangel and Gorka Pintado scoring.

Burnley are just one place outside the play-offs after a 1-0 win at Blackpool thanks to Christian Kalvenes’s left-footed shot from the six-yard box with five minutes to go.

Darel Russell scored the only goal as relegation-threatened Norwich ended a run of seven championship matches without a win at faltering QPR.

Southampton remain in the relegation zone but they had a
3-0 win at Ipswich.

Paul Gallagher scored twice as Plymouth beat Watford 2