Midweek Rest Gives Blues The Advantage In Heavyweight Bout With Manchester United

All week, Sky Sports have been relentlessly promoting a clash taking place in Manchester this weekend that could well define the two contenders' professional future.

No question about it, David Haye versus John Ruiz at the MEN Arena promises to be an intriguing boxing bout. But come Saturday, there will be only one battle that is really worthy of the interest of the majority of sports fans. And it will take place at Old Trafford.

In the Red corner, weighed down by three consecutive league titles and the 2008 Champions League trophy, is Manchester United.

In the Blue corner, weighed down by insecurity and self-doubt having failed to win the league since 2006 and falling short in that 2008 Champions League final, is Chelsea.

On offer — as long as there is a knockout victor, at least — is a potentially decisive advantage in the ever-shortening race to the Premier League title. And if the preparation for such events is anything to go by, Carlo Ancelotti’s side could be poised to secure a dramatic victory in front of a hostile crowd at the 'Theatre of Dreams'.

Enjoying an uninterrupted week of recuperation and training after demolishing Aston Villa 7-1 at the weekend, the Blues have been able to sit back and cackle — although perhaps slightly reservedly, considering their own shortcomings against Inter Milan — as it slowly went wrong for their title rivals in Europe.

Arsenal, already off the pace in their table after their draw against Birmingham City at the weekend, drew with Barcelona but lost captain Cesc Fabregas for the foreseeable future in the process.

More importantly, United, amidst being given a taste of their own medicine by Bayern Munich, suffered the one crisis they were hoping to avoid above all else — an injury to Wayne Rooney.

The striker, with 34 goals to his name so far this season, has been diagnosed with minor ankle ligament damage and early estimates suggest he will miss between two and four weeks of action.

That means he will definitely be absent for Saturday’s early kick-off against the Blues, and could well sit out a sizeable portion of his side’s other five remaining league games.

Without him United seem to have a clear lack of a goalscoring threat to call upon. Dimitar Berbatov (12 league goals to his name this season, just one more than the number of own goals United have been able to call upon), will lead the line at the weekend, but he will do well to occupy both John Terry and Ricardo Carvalho.

Not that United will admit they are concerned.

“In games Wayne has missed recently, we've scored some goals. Dimitar has come in and done ever so well,” defender Rio Ferdinand said after Tuesday’s defeat to Bayner Munich, echoing the views of a number of his team-mates.

“Rooney is a great player and has been very influential in our season so far but we know we have players who can come in and deliver.

“We don't like losing. You've got to take things on the chin and get on with it. On Saturday we'll see a better, brighter team.”

Chelsea, however, have their own worries over their leading scorer. Drogba might be four goals shy of Rooney’s current record, but he has been equally important to his side throughout the current campaign. Struggling with a number of slight ailments, he is rated as a doubt for the big game. Although, considering how well Ancelotti’s side coped without him last week (and throughout January when he was at the African Cup of Nations), perhaps the 32-year-old’s absence would actually be a blessing in disguise.
Whatever the case, perhaps it would be fitting if these two sides would face off without their most potent weapons. Then we can find out which squad comprises the better team — rather than simply which one is blessed with the most talented talisman.

In that respect, the game is too close to call. United's midfield is unarguably a more well-oiled machine at the minute than Chelsea's, while defensively both sides have been forced into unwanted rotation in recent weeks due to injuries. With their forward lines both weakened, individual battles might take on extra significance.

Florent Malouda, for example, will be salivating at the prospect of taking on Gary Neville down United’s right. The Frenchman will have seen the torturous time his international team-mate Franck Ribery gave the veteran defender at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday, and considering his current form (four goals in the last two games) will be confident of putting on a similar display.

Even if Sir Alex opts for young Rafael instead, the inexperienced Brazilian will have a job dealing with someone who is playing as well as anyone in the Premier League right now.

But on the other hand, Antonio Valencia did not start in midweek and, especially after being tactically very effective in the last game between the two sides, might cause Chelsea's stand-in left-back Yury Zhirkov a number of problems with his strong running and ever-improving crossing ability.

How will midfielder Darren Fletcher cope with the late runs of Frank Lampard. Will John Obi Mikel be able to stop Paul Scholes or Ryan Giggs from playing in their team-mates around the edge of the Chelsea box? On such encounters the game might well be decided.

In front of 75,000-plus supportive fans, United will be buoyed by their record this season which has seen them drop only five points from a possible 48 on home soil (losing to Villa, drawing with Sunderland — although they did also lose to Leeds United in the FA Cup). But Chelsea will take confidence from the 1-0 win they secured when the two sides met at Stamford Bridge in November.

"The fans at Old Trafford are always great in the big games, so they’ll hopefully help us over the line," Darren Fletcher told FourFourTwo magazine recently.

"It does give you a slight advantage but this is top Chelsea side we’re talking about. They’re capable of coming to Old Trafford and winning.”

What is more, following their four previous away trips in Europe this season United have only subsequently managed to win once — following a victory in Turkey against Besiktas with a last-minute 4-3 victory against rivals Manchester City. Every other game they lost — with Villa (at home), Liverpool and Everton the grateful benefactors.

Whatever the case, perhaps it would be fitting if these two sides would face off without their most potent weapons. Then we can find out which squad comprises the better team — rather than simply which one is blessed with the most talented talisman.

In that respect, the game is too close to call. United's midfield is unarguably a more well-oiled machine at the minute than Chelsea's, while defensively both sides have been forced into unwanted rotation in recent weeks due to injuries. With their forward lines both weakened, individual battles might take on extra significance.

Florent Malouda, for example, will be salivating at the prospect of taking on Gary Neville down United’s right. The Frenchman will have seen the torturous time his international team-mate Franck Ribery gave the veteran defender at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday, and considering his current form (four goals in the last two games) will be confident of putting on a similar display.

Even if Sir Alex opts for young Rafael instead, the inexperienced Brazilian will have a job dealing with someone who is playing as well as anyone in the Premier League right now.

But on the other hand, Antonio Valencia did not start in midweek and, especially after being tactically very effective in the last game between the two sides, might cause Chelsea's stand-in left-back Yury Zhirkov a number of problems with his strong running and ever-improving crossing ability.

How will midfielder Darren Fletcher cope with the late runs of Frank Lampard. Will John Obi Mikel be able to stop Paul Scholes or Ryan Giggs from playing in their team-mates around the edge of the Chelsea box? On such encounters the game might well be decided.

In front of 75,000-plus supportive fans, United will be buoyed by their record this season which has seen them drop only five points from a possible 48 on home soil (losing to Villa, drawing with Sunderland — although they did also lose to Leeds United in the FA Cup). But Chelsea will take confidence from the 1-0 win they secured when the two sides met at Stamford Bridge in November.

"The fans at Old Trafford are always great in the big games, so they’ll hopefully help us over the line," Darren Fletcher told FourFourTwo magazine recently.

"It does give you a slight advantage but this is top Chelsea side we’re talking about. They’re capable of coming to Old Trafford and winning.”

What is more, following their four previous away trips in Europe this season United have only subsequently managed to win once — following a victory in Turkey against Besiktas with a last-minute 4-3 victory against rivals Manchester City. Every other game they lost — with Villa (at home), Liverpool and Everton the grateful benefactors.

Ancelotti: A Good Moment To Play United

With Wayne Rooney and Cesc Fabregas dominating the sports news the last two days, it could be easy to believe the injury wheel of fortune has turned in Chelsea's favour. Carlo Ancelotti dismisses the idea.

The loss of Manchester United and Arsenal's most revered players, for however long, has made Chelsea the favourites to take the league championship title according to some observers but as we prepare for a top of the table clash at Old Trafford, no-one at Cobham is taking comfort from the other teams' medical problems.

'Every team has a lot of injuries at the moment,' argues Ancelotti, 'and I would like that Manchester United could use Rooney and Fabregas could play for Arsenal if I could have my injured players ready to play.

'I want to remind everyone that we have out Michael Essien, Ashley Cole, Jose Bosingwa, Branislav Ivanovic and also Ricardo Carvalho, so I don't know if we can claim advantage from injuries.'

Happily one injury problem the Chelsea manager doesn't have is Didier Drogba despite the player missing training on Tuesday and Wednesday. The cause was an accidental kick on the knee by Yury Zhirkov during one of the sessions.

'Drogba trained very well on Thursday and is fit to play,' Ancelotti reports.

'I think he will start against Manchester United. The other strikers did a fantastic job against Aston Villa but Drogba is a very important player for us.'

The back four will remain the same as the Villa game - Paulo Ferreira, Alex, John Terry and Zhirkov. The only player returning to the squad following injury is Juliano Belletti. He is back from Brazil where he underwent treatment on a knee problem and is fully recovered.

Ancelotti has expressed doubt over Michael Essien playing again for Chelsea this season. The midfielder is on the way back from knee surgery.

John Terry Urges Chelsea To Face Manchester United With No Fear

John Terry says his Chelsea side must approach Saturday's meeting with Manchester United at Old Trafford with no fear and use the momentum gained in recent weeks to take a potentially crucial lead in the title race.

Chelsea travel to Manchester this weekend one point behind the leaders United with six games to play. Sir Alex Ferguson's side will be without Wayne Rooney, but Carlo Ancelotti today suggested that Didier Drogba could return to the Chelsea line-up after injury.

"There is so much on the game on Saturday and the way we have played the last couple of games, we have to take that momentum and that same gameplan into this match," said Terry. "We have to approach the game with no fear and we must go into it playing our own game. It is a tough place to go and the way we got beaten there and the way we played there last year was not good enough."

The Chelsea captain said that the experience of last season's visit to Old Trafford – when they were comprehensively beaten 3-0 – would be a motivation. "We go there not only with confidence from the last few games but still hurting from that defeat, and that will spur us on," he said.

Grin It To Win Against Drogba

Florent Malouda has told Manchester United how to halt Didier Drogba: Make him laugh.

The Blues midfielder revealed the trick was the best way to put off his Chelsea pal in training.

Malouda said: "I know him very well and can give him a lot of trouble. You need to be clever with him. It's best to destabilise him.

"Sometimes I make him laugh so he loses focus. That's the best way to defend against him."

But Malouda - whose team goes to Old Trafford on Saturday in a table-top clash - warned that Drogba had a hunger to excel.

He said: "People dream about things - Didier dreams about goals and scores the goals he dreams about."

Carlo Ancelotti Doesn't Expect Manchester United To Struggle Without Injured Wayne Rooney

Carlo Ancelotti has warned his Chelsea players not to expect an easy ride against Manchester United on Saturday, even if the Red Devils are without star striker Wayne Rooney.

The 24-year-old limped off against Bayern Munich in the Champions League in midweek, and is expected to be out for up to a month with strained ankle ligaments.

While he will miss Saturday's game, Ancelotti expects United to respond positively to the loss of their leading scorer.

"We know how Rooney is important for this team, he is a fantastic player, he is having a fantastic season and this injury could be an advantage for us," Ancelotti acknowledged in his press conference ahead of the game.

"But maybe sometimes a team can give more than 100 per cent when a very important player is out, and so we have to pay attention to this — because I think Manchester United has the experience and the players to support the absence of Wayne Rooney."

However, Ancelotti revealed that Chelsea will be able to call on the services of their top scorer, Didier Drogba, who will be fit to start after missing training earlier in the week with a knee injury.

Eriksson Checks On His Elephants

Newly appointed Ivory Coast coach Sven Goran Eriksson was at Cobham on Thursday, but not only to meet Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou.

The Swede, England's manager between 2001 and 2006 also caught up with Carlo Ancelotti who he knew well from his time in Italy, and met Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole, John Terry and Joe Cole, who all wore the three lions under his guidance.

'Carlo Ancelotti, I know very well,' said the 62-year-old. 'He is a good friend, we were opponents as coaches in Italy but before that he was my captain in Roma for three years, so I know him very well, he is a very nice man.

'It is nice to see this training facility, it is absolutely fantastic, I was here before at Cobham when there were cabins, but now it is like a five-star hotel,' he added.

Of course the main reason for Eriksson's visit was to meet his new captain, just days after being appointed to lead Ivory Coast at this summer's World Cup in South Africa.

'My first impressions are excellent,' he confirmed. 'Both Chelsea players seem to be very good human beings, which is important, and the quality they have, Kalou is very talented and Drogba is on the top, top, top level in the world today and has been so for years.

'For sure it is a very talented football team, with a lot of good football players. What I want to do is go as far as possible in the tournament and I will travel around to see more or less all of the players and find out what we need, to have their opinions about things. Then around the 20th, 22nd May, we come together to work, it is a very short period together.'

With experience of two such tournaments already, he knows he has a tough task in guiding Les Elephants through the notorious 'Group of Death', against the two sides that eliminated him as England manager.

'Well, of course, we are in the most difficult group of all,' he acknowledged, 'but I think it is difficult even for Brazil and Portugal. Also everybody who talks about the group forgets about North Korea, who are very similar to South Korea, and have they have the same style, they can run all day that is for sure.'

It will certainly be interesting to see how Eriksson gets on in South Africa, but having Drogba and Kalou on board will do him no harm at all.

Marcel Desailly Criticises Chelsea Before Manchester United Trip

Marcel Desailly has offered a scathing assessment of Chelsea's chances of regaining the Premier League title this season before Saturday's trip to Manchester United, with the club's former centre-half claiming "five players have to leave the club" in the summer.

The former France star spent six years at Stamford Bridge, joining them after winning the 1998 World Cup. He made 222 league appearances, before leaving in 2004, a year before José Mourinho secured the club's first league title in 50 years. He pinpointed United's consistency in midfield as potentially crucial as Sir Alex Ferguson's side pursue a fourth consecutive league championship success, with Chelsea still suffering from the loss of Michael Essien's dynamism in the centre.

"It looks like the [Chelsea] midfield have not really delivered protection to the defence," Desailly said. "The defensive block have had some problems this year. That is why they are not four, five or six points ahead because they have lost many points on free-kicks and just generally losing their concentration. Previously the midfield was absolutely amazing.

"Even if they weren't winning the Premier League, it was holding the team. The midfield was really playing well. Now Joe Cole is not expressing himself as he wanted, [Michael] Ballack has disappeared the last two months, [Jon Obi] Mikel is playing his best but the team misses Essien. So this is why the defence is suffering."

With those failings in mind, Desailly predicted a summer of change in south-west London. "First they need to get rid of four or five guys who are not Chelsea players," he told the Premier League's website. "I think five players have to leave the club. After that it depends on the finances. People are talking about [the Bayern Munich winger Franck] Ribéry but Ribéry is a problem because they have [Florent] Malouda on the left. I'm not sure if they will spend again.

"When you look at the two teams, United have a small advantage on the consistency they are showing in the midfield. Absolutely amazing. Players like [Darren] Fletcher, Nani coming back at a high level and [Antonio] Valencia have made a contribution. Let's not even talk about [Ryan] Giggs. Right the way back to [Edwin] van der Sar, it's a real team, a group. That's why I believe that Manchester United today have more energy than Chelsea."

Di Maria Dismisses Move To England

Benfica ace Angel Di Maria has played down talk of a possible move to England.

Di Maria is one of the most sought-after talents in Europe after catching the eye for club and country over the last year.

Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea have all been linked with the flying winger along with a host of other top European clubs.

"I am not interested in the rumours - in England they look through everything with a magnifying glass but I don't have to worry about it," said Di Maria.

"At the moment I am only interested in Benfica and I think we can win anywhere in Europe."

No Coincidence: Frank Lampard’s Return to Form Coincides With Chelsea’s

As Frank Lampard goes, Chelsea goes; an adage that has served the west Londoners well over the past decade, as Lampard’s form rarely takes prolonged dips. But for the month of February and first half of March, the engine that has driven Chelsea to such great successes was showing a few leaks.

Season after season, the Chelsea attack has gone through their number 8. For all his lack of pizazz or flash, Frank Lampard has been Chelsea’s (and arguably the Premier League’s) most consistent player for the past seven years. Pundits and fans alike were looking for answers as to why Chelsea had lost their edge in recent weeks. Certainly there are a multitude of reasons one could find: John Terry’s errant performances in the wake of the Wayne Bridge scandal, the plethora of defensive injuries hurting the side, or Carlo Ancelotti simply being outcoached. While these developments have definitely affected the team greatly, it is the fact that Lampard looked bizarrely lost in games that sent Chelsea into a skid.

As the attack centered more on Florent Malouda and Didier Drogba, Lampard seemed unable to make an impact on games, or even find what space to occupy as attacks developed. It seemed as if games would drift by without a mention of his name. He was not finding that five yards of space between the opponents’ midfield and defense where he could launch his deadly long shots, from which he has scored so many goals over the years. Perhaps the timing was off with his teammates, but it seemed his late runs into the box were never found, nor was he able to set himself up in midfield, survey the field and pick out a rushing fullback down the flank or a diagonal run from a forward he could send through. These are the cornerstones of Lampard’s game, and for about a six-week spell his form perilously fell from grace. And not coincidentally, so did Chelsea’s.

Despite Drogba and Malouda playing lights out, something was missing from the Chelsea attack, making them much too reliant on Drogba’s strength and Malouda’s flare. Indeed, the spaces that Lampard should have been occupying were being taken over by Malouda, and as fast as the Frenchman’s star was rising, Lampard’s was falling. Aside from his brace in the humbling 4-2 defeat versus Manchester City, the Chelsea legend went 10 games in February and early March without scoring and getting only one assist, which are telling statistics. Why? Over that span Chelsea dropped 10 EPL points over eight matches and got knocked out of the Champions League. Indeed, in his outings against Internazionale and his former mentor Jose Mourinho, Lampard never even showed up and had zero impact over the two matches.

This stretch was enough to make a soccer fan think. It seemed too long a blip to be just temporary. Is he just not fitting in Ancelotti’s system? Are his best days behind him and has Ancelotti given the reins of attack over to Malouda and Drogba? Then again, it is Frank Lampard we are talking about. Surely he will bounce back. Right?

‘Bounce back’ would be an injustice to describe Lampard’s last two matches. Whatever happened between his tepid performance against Blackburn (which saw Manchester United go top of the table) and his dominant showing three days later against lowly Pompey only Frank knows. Against Portsmouth, he was back to his old self: pinpoint longballs, shooting on sight and always testing the keeper, finding Drogba over the top or on the ground, and making timely runs which were now being rewarded. For 90 minutes he was the man of the match despite not scoring, and to see him so frustrated at not getting a goal showed he knew his game was back. Rather than look lost, he looked hungry. And he got his just rewards with a 90th minute goal.

Then, we all saw the destruction against a good Aston Villa side. Plundering home four goals still didn’t speak to the impact he had on the match. Lampard was simply everywhere, and could have had five were it not for his selfless lay-off to Malouda for Chelsea’s fifth in the 7-1 demolition.

Five goals for Lampard and twelve for Chelsea in the last two matches will surely intimidate the unflappable Alex Ferguson. It seems that as Frank Lampard has hit his stride so has Chelsea, setting up the English game of the year this Saturday: Manchester United v Chelsea at Old Trafford to quite possibly decide the title. Enough to give any soccer fan goosebumps.

Desailly: Managing The Midfield

Chelsea legend Marcel Desailly believes the midfield battle will be crucial when we step out at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon.

We head into the game one point behind our opponents Manchester United at the top of the Barclays Premier League, knowing an away win would strike a huge psychological blow to the hosts.

Desailly, no stranger to high pressure matches during his time with Chelsea between 1998 and 2004, believes gaining the upper hand will prove decisive, given United's counter-attacking style.

'For me it is the Chelsea midfield that needs to press and handle Manchester United,' he assesses. 'United counter-attack and so it is a team matter, spirit will make the difference, I am not sure just one guy can make the difference.

'We have an Italian coach who is very clever tactically, he understands the game and that he needs to win, but you have to be very careful because Manchester United is a team that does not really play, they let the opponent get confidence, then counter-attack and make the difference. That means Chelsea have to have two players in midfield who stay all the time in position.'

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger suggested our Champions League exit may damage the club's hopes on the domestic front also, but Desailly believes it allows the side to focus on its main challenge.

'I am happy because the players can now focus,' he told the Official Chelsea Website. 'Having the Champions League is something extra in your season, Manchester United is playing for both, physically, psychologically, it is hard, Chelsea have one target - it will not give extra energy, but they know what is left for them and they can concentrate, which is vital.'

Having been reluctant to point to key individuals in this clash, Desailly did have praise for the recent form of his compatriot Florent Malouda, who has scored four times in his last two games, and looks a certain starter in the north west.

'It is so nice to see him smiling, playing well and scoring,' said the World Cup winner. 'It is great to see how confidently he is playing. A couple of years ago people didn't want him to stay, but the club have done well giving him a new contract and he is at peace, that's why he is performing.'

Desailly, Chelsea legend and judge for 'Barclays Around the World in 90 Minutes', is calling on football fans around the globe to record their matchday experience during our match, and all other Barclays Premier League fixtures this weekend.

'I am very pleased how people have shared their experiences of the matchday experience so far, people from all over the world, Japan, Australia, Zimbabwe, Pakistan, it's amazing to see the impact of the Barclays Premier League,' he said. 'I hope after this weekend we receive even more from fans around the world.'

Mancienne Waits On Decision

Michael Mancienne has indicated that he does not want to hold talks with Wolves regarding his future until after the season has finished.

The on-loan Chelsea defender has spent the campaign at Molineux in order to increase his experience and has impressed while with Mick McCarthy's men.

McCarthy has indicated that he wants discussions with Mancienne before the end of his deal in the summer and he also plans to build a dialogue with Chelsea on the subject.

But Mancienne, who spent time with Wolves as they gained promotion from the Championship last season, wants to concentrate on ensuring his current club stay in the Premier League after collecting a vital eight points from the last four games.

The 22-year-old said: "I'm not even thinking about it (my future) to be honest.

"All I'm concentrating on is these last six games for Wolves. As to what happens after that we'll have to see."

Mancienne has started or come on as a substitute in 25 league games this season and in recent matches has operated in a central midfield role.

He said: "I have played in this position before, but I'm learning about it more and more every time I play it.

"I am happy playing anywhere I'm put, but I do enjoy the midfield role."

Chelsea Set For Mass Exodus To Fund £32m Premier League Duo Swoop?

Chelsea are reportedly set for a summer clearout ahead of ambitious moves for two Premier League stars. Carlo Ancelotti is ready to bid farewell to four first team squad members to help fund the deals as Roman Abramovich is not overly keen on bankrolling the club’s transfer budget from his seemingly thinning wallet.

The Russian billionaire apparently lost a large chunk of his fortune in the global recession and is more than willing to invest in new additions to the Stamford Bridge side but would also like to see the club’s wage bill trimmed before doing so.

Joe Cole is still yet to sign a new contract and could be on his way to Man United, Deco has already made it clear he would like to be allowed to make a move to Brazil with Fluninese the most likely destination for the former Barcelona man. John Obi Mikel is also struggling to get first team action and could be deemed surplus to requirements likewise perennial sub Salomon Kalou.

The players Ancelotti hopes to lure to west London are Everton pair Steven Pienaar and Jack Rodwell. David Moyes is sure to try to block any such Goodison Park raid but may find it hard to prevent either player from having their heads turned by the prospect of such a move.

Highly rated youngster Rodwell is also being targeted by Sir Alex Ferguson who apparently sees the England Under-21 international as an ideal long term replacement for veteran Paul Scholes. South African playmaker Steven Pienaar has performed wonderfully this season and could well be ready to make a move back into the type of Champions League action he enjoyed whilst at Ajax.

The two are valued together at around 32m and should Chelsea be able to fund such a move by losing high earners such as Deco from their wage bill as well as getting decent sums for other peripheral figures then perhaps these deals could become a reality, albeit a reality the Toffees boss will fight tooth and nail to prevent.

Abramovich To Answer Berezovsky Coercion Claims In Court

Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich must answer allegations that he used coercive tactics to force former business partner Boris Berezovsky to sell his assets at an undervalued market price, the High Court ruled today.

Addleshaw Goddard partner Mark Hastings instructed One Essex Court’s Laurence Rabinowitz QC for Berezovsky.

Skadden Arps Meagher & Flom partner Paul Mitchard QC instructed Brick Courts’ Andrew Popplewell QC to apply to the High Court for strike out on behalf of Abramovich.

The ruling will pave the way for a major High Court showdown between the two oligarchs to take place over the 12-week long Michaelmas term next year.

In July 2005 Berezovksy announced his intention to sue Abramovich through London’s High Court for breach of trust, breach of trust and breach of fiduciary claims.

It was another two years before he personally served the writ on Abramovich during a scuffle in Sloane Sqaure.

At the heart of Berezovsky’s claim is the allegation that Abramovich coerced him into selling his 21.5 per cent stake in Russian oil company Sibneft for a significantly reduced price.

Popplewell told Mr Justice Colman that Berezovsky’s claim lacked detail: “We want to know where the oral threats were made so that witnesses could be called.”

He continued: “This is a case that cries out for a summary judgment or strike out.”

Colman J rejected the argument: “I am satisfied that it is impossible to say that this claim has no real prospect of success…

“Weak as some of BB’s case certainly appear the complexity and multiplicity of issues makes this exactly the kind of claim which is unsuitable for applications under CPR3.4.”

Permission to appeal was refused.

Scouting Report – Chelsea’s Young Duo Leading The Way In Holland

Whilst Chelsea may need some surgery in the summer to replace aging legs, they can take some heart from two of their youngster who are sitting top of the Eredivisie.

Chelsea stars Miroslav Stoch and Slobodan Rajkovic are currently on loan at Steve McClaren’s FC Twente and Miroslav Stoch in particular is receiving rave reviews for his performances. FC Twente are at the top of Eredivisie four points clear of rivals Ajax and five points clear of PSV Eindhoven. Steve McClaren is slowly rebuilding his reputation over in Holland after the shambles of England’s Euro 2008 qualifying campaign.

After selling a host of the club’s top players, Steve McClaren turned to Chelsea to loan winger Miroslav Stoch and centre back Slobodan Rajkovic. Both deals have turned out well not only for FC Twente, but Chelsea as well. Much has been written of Chelsea’s squad after the Champions League exit against Jose Mourinho’s Inter Milan. Aging legs and a team that once was all conquering being past it has been thrown around far too casually for my liking. Chelsea’s demolishing of Aston Villa 7-1 was a good reply to those critics. With players of the ability of Stoch and Rajkovic coming through the ranks, they should have no problem.

Miroslav Stoch has been something of a sensation this season. 8 goals in 27 league appearances from midfield is a great return. Having made some sporadic late substitute appearances for Chelsea last season, the 20 yr old Slovakian was allowed to join up with Steve McClaren for the season at FC Twente. Stoch is quick, versatile and has a sensational cross. Upon a most likely return to Chelsea in the summer, he would most certainly offer some pace and youth to the West London side’s ranks. The winger is already a full Slovakia international with ten caps to his name and one goal. With PSV Eindhoven keen to gain his signature, Chelsea is believed to be pulling the stops out to offer the talented youngster a long term deal.

Slobodan Rajkovic may not be setting alight the Eredivisie like his team mate, but he is rebuilding his career very well at FC Twente. The 21 year old Yugoslavian was signed by Chelsea in 2005 for £4.4 million from OFK Beograd. A world record at the time for a defender under 18 years of age. He has not made a single first team appearance for Chelsea as of yet. Having spent a year on loan at Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven, Rajkovic has been on loan at FC Twente for the past 2 years. On September 4th 2008, the Belgrade born centre back was banned by FIFA for a year after allegedly spitting at a referee during the Beijing Olympics. On appeal this was lifted to just international fixtures.

Having appeared thirteen times this season for Steve McClaren’s men he is slowly establishing himself in the team. Known for his towering height and strength, Rajkovic is a tough customer to get past at the back. It looks likely he will be given another year out on loan to hone his skills. He already has 5 caps to his name for the Serbia national side and is most certainly one to watch.

What is clear is that it’s not all doom and gloom at Stamford Bridge as has been reported recently. With players such as Gael Kakuta coming through along with Miroslav Stoch and Slobodan Rajkovic making waves in Eredivisie. The future looks bright for Chelsea.

Brazilian Club Target Chelsea Star

Chelsea veteran Deco is a summer target for Brazilian club Fluminese.

Portugal star Deco, 32, has another season left on his contract at Stamford Bridge but the Brazilian club are trying to sign him on the cheap.

Flamingo and Corinthians are also interested in the Brazilian-born midfielder who is tempted by one last contract back in his native country.

Deco's agent Acaz Felleger has confirmed that Fluminese have been in contact and says the decision is now up to Chelsea.

Felleger said: "Contact has been made but there has been nothing formal yet. We have had other propositions from Brazil but we will wait until the end of the season so Deco can concentrate on football.

"The decision rests with Chelsea but maybe they will allow him to go as one day he would like to return to Brazil to be close to his family."

Fluminese vice-president Alcides Antunes said: "We have spoken but it won't be easy because of financial reasons. Fluminese wants reinforcements but we also have other options."

Deco joined Chelsea from Barcelona in 2007 for £8m but has struggled to make a big impact and has only been a bit-part player.

Deco, who gained a Portuguese passport through ancestry and has since been a huge World Cup star, made a rare start for Chelsea against Aston Villa on Saturday but the Premier League side are unlikely to offer him a new deal.

Chelsea Consider Move For £13m Premier League Playmaker

Steven Pienaar is apparently considering his options at Goodison Park ahead of this summer’s World Cup in his homeland and that news has sparked interest from London outfit Chelsea. The talented playmaker, valued around £13m, has been in good form this season but is apparently keen to secure Champions League football and may feel in order to do so he must seek a move away from the Toffees.

Carlo Ancelotti is looking at making a move for the Everton man and could well make an offer the 28 year old would find hard to refuse. The former Ajax man would surely be tempted by a move to a club who could offer him a shot at the Premier League title as well as guaranteed Champions League football. However he may be less keen on the possibility of not getting regular starts at Stamford Bridge given the wealth of talent on offer, strength in depth that results in the likes of Joe Cole having to warm the bench.

David Moyes will of course fight tooth and nail to prevent one of his prized assets from leaving the club but as evidenced by the moves away from Everton of the likes of Wayne Rooney and Joleon Lescott, he may find it hard to stop a move to London where he could well be offered the kind of financial package the Merseyside club can not afford to offer.

Chelsea Target Hamsik To Begin Napoli Contract Talks

Star midfielder Marek Hamsik is expected to discuss his contract situation with Napoli at the end of next month.

The 22-year-old has verbally agreed to extend his existing deal and all that's missing is his signature. Napoli have been in the process of tying down their stars over the last couple of months and Hamsik is the biggest prize.

Italian daily, Corriere dello Sport believes that given Hamsik is one of the most promising youngsters in Europe, his buy-out clause would be over €40m.

Hamsik has been a consistent performer in Serie A over the past several years and has scored 10 goals in 31 games so far this season and was seen as subject to a possible summer bidding war between Jose Mourinho's Inter Milan and his former club Chelsea. It had been rumoured that Hamsik will be part of a Chelsea summer spending spree to replace several members of the Blues' aging squad.

However, Hamsik's apparent desire to stay with Napoli means that a big move to Chelsea or anywhere else is unlikely to happen in the short-term.

Hamsik was recently voted Slovakian player of the year for 2009 and is expected to star for his country during this summer's World Cup.

Frank Arnesen Wants To Bring Marco van Basten To Chelsea

Reports in Holland today claim that Chelsea’s Director of Football Frank Arnesen would like to bring Marco van Basten to the club.

The former coach of Holland and Ajax is reportedly high on Arnesen’s list of possible replacements for Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge.

Ancelotti is under increasing pressure after Chelsea were dumped out the Champions League by Inter Milan in the last 16 knockout round.

Van Basten is also currently being linked with a return to AC Milan to replace Leonardo who is under pressure after the Rossoneri have fallen away in Serie A of late.

The 45-year-old is currently out of work after he resigned as Ajax coach in May 2009.

Chelsea Stars On Average £3.5M Salary

Chelsea players are on an average salary of £3.5 million.

Figures published by a major US sports website shows Roman Abramovich has turned his squad into the fourth richest group of sportsmen in the world.

The Blues stand just below Real Madrid and Barcelona as the highest payers in world football.

But all three are dwarfed by New York Yankees' baseball team.

Their players pocket £4.6m a year each or almost £90,000 a week.

NBA basketball stars make up the rest of the top 10 list for 2008.

The figures, revealed by sportingintelligence.com, are for first-team players.

Site editor Nick Harris said: "The findings will come as a surprise to anyone who thinks the Premier League is the best paid division in world sport because it's far from it."

Terry: Goals Flowing Thanks To Formation Adjustment

The goals are flowing for Chelsea thanks to a formation adjustment, says skipper John Terry.

For the earlier Portsmouth match and again against Villa, Carlo Ancelotti opted for an altered formation that operated close to a 4-3-3 with Florent Malouda and either Joe Cole, Daniel Sturridge or Salomon Kalou pushing forward down the flanks. His captain recognised the benefit.

"The formation suits us probably a little bit better with the two widemen," Terry told Chelsea TV.

"Over the years we have had a lot of success with that. We stretch teams, especially at home, which is good because teams do come to the Bridge and sit tight.

"Even Villa did that in the first half [on Saturday]. They were playing with two wide men and with [John] Carew up the top on his own which restricted our full-backs going forward. It was always going to be difficult but we had seen Villa in recent weeks tiring in the later stages of games.

"They pressed us well but thankfully we scored through Lamps' penalty just before half time and the way we started both halves was key."

Lampard Highlights Deco Influence In Chelsea Scoring Spree

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard says the return of Deco has had a big say in their recent goal scoring form.

The Blues have struck 12 goals in the last two games.

"Deco has come back into the side and he played well at Portsmouth," Lampard told chelseafc.com.

"He offers some culture and some great passing, and Joe Cole was lively.

Of course Didier Drogba has been a great player this season by some distance, but we respect what Nicolas Anelka does as well and the manager's choice was proved right on Saturday."

Malouda Playing At His Best Since Chelsea Arrival

Florent Malouda admits he's delighted with his form for Chelsea this season.

Four goals in the 5-0 and 7-1 routs of Portsmouth and Aston Villa respectively has taken his total to 13 for the season, which is already his best-ever tally for the club. Perhaps more significantly is the 15 assists provided for his team-mates and now he is highly respected by the crowd.

He said: “I'm pleased but the season is not finished. I'm looking to score more goals because we have some big games coming up. We know that goal difference will be important.

“Every game now is a final. If you don't get the points from the game you have to play, you lose your position in the table. We are ready for this, we have worked very hard since the start of the season to be there.

“Of course we would prefer to be on top of the League but we are still in a good position because we have to play Manchester United.

“The win against Villa was the best performance since I have been here. When we had the ball we had a lot of movement and everybody enjoyed themselves. We're trying to make history. It's been a tough season for us but we must focus because we still have big games and we will see where we are at the end of the season.”

Chelsea Will Not Appeal Against Didier Drogba's Two-Match UEFA Ban

Chelsea will waive a potential appeal and accept the two-match ban imposed on Didier Drogba by Uefa following his dismissal in the Champions League knockout defeat to Internazionale at Stamford Bridge.

The Ivory Coast forward was sent off by Wolfgang Stark, the German referee, for stamping on Thiago Motta's ankle three minutes from full time as Chelsea slipped out of Europe, a violent conduct offence that carries a two-match suspension. He will miss the opening two group games in next season's competition, for which the team appear certain to qualify.

Chelsea can officially challenge the decision within three days of receiving Uefa's written reasoning, though they will instead accept the punishment as there had been fears that the offence would prompt a four-match suspension. Drogba had been warned as to his future conduct, banned for four games (later reduced to three) with a further two-match ban suspended after being found guilty of making "offensive comments" towards the referee Tom Henning Ovrebo following last season's semi-final elimination against Barcelona.

European football's governing body opted against activating that suspended punishment and, instead, extended Drogba's probationary period by two years to July 2013 as the offence against Motta was deemed to be very different from his outburst against Ovrebo. "The suspension applies to the next two Uefa club competition matches for which Drogba would be eligible," a Uefa spokesman said.

The player has drawn Uefa sanction after Chelsea's elimination in each of the past three seasons – he was sent off in the 2008 final in Moscow – but insisted his stamp on Motta had been accidental, with Chelsea frustrated by Inter's impressive display at Stamford Bridge as they prevailed 3-1 on aggregate in the last-16 tie.

"The referee was a bit hard on me for this red card," Drogba said at the time. "I stepped on his tendon but it was not intentional and I was more focused on the cross and the ball. I'm going to try to make it better. The last three years have all been unhappy endings, so I hope next season the Champions League will be mine."

Drogba Two-Match UEFA Ban

Didier Drogba has been given a two-match suspension from European competition as a result of being sent off in Chelsea's Champions League match versus Inter.

A Uefa statement reads:

Chelsea FC striker Didier Drogba has been suspended by UEFA's Control and Disciplinary Body for two European club competition matches after being sent off in the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg against FC Internazionale Milano in London on 16 March.

The suspension applies to the next two club competition matches for which Drogba would be eligible. The player's existing period of probation, which began on 15 July 2009 and was originally intended to run for two years, has also been extended to 15 July 2013. An appeal may be lodged within three days of the sending of the reasoned decision.

Reserves Report: Chelsea 1 - 0 Portsmouth

Chelsea reserves returned to winning ways with a 1-0 league victory over Portsmouth at Cobham on Monday night.

Gael Kakuta scored the only goal of the game after 15 minutes, but Chelsea could and perhaps should have added more after dominating long periods of the game.

Without a number of his younger players due to the youth team's trip to Dallas, coach Steve Holland was still able to name a strong starting line-up, with seven of the 11 having played first team football for Chelsea.

The side included Carlo Ancelotti's latest debutant, Patrick van Aanholt, and the manager and his backroom staff were there to observe the second string start brightly, Kakuta and Fabio Borini both denied by instinctive defending and goalkeeping in the opening exchanges.

Also present was captain Sam Hutchinson, who had completed 45 minutes against Fulham a week earlier. He would play an hour tonight.

He also played a major part in the goal. Playing at centre-half, he threaded a ball through the Portsmouth defence for Kakuta, who kept his composure, controlled and volleyed beyond goalkeeper Jon Stewart.

Despite the driving wind and rain Chelsea were passing the ball well, using the greasy surface to their advantage as the visitors were reduced to chasing spritely shadows.

Nemanja Matic was fouled five yards outside the away area on 24 minutes, Jeffrey Bruma's curling free-kick bouncing just in front of the goalkeeper before he turned it around the post.

Daniel Sturridge, who had again been causing problems, was replaced just after the half-hour by first year scholar Philipp Prosenik, recently recovered from a long-term knee injury.

From right-back, Bruma was causing Portsmouth infinite problems with his attacking play, while Matic was having joy in a more advanced midfield role afforded him by the disciplined Liam Bridcutt in the anchor role.

In contrast Portsmouth were hardly able to venture into the Chelsea half, such was the Blues' total control of the game. Steve Holland's only grievance would have been his side's wastefulness in front of goal, Prosenik, Jacob Mellis and Van Aanholt all guilty of not working the keeper hard enough after smart build-up play.

Pompey's first threat came with two minutes remaining in the first half, Nadir Cifti heading a corner wide after Nana Ofori-Twumasi had headed behind.

Just before the break Mellis excellently danced through the defence before his shot was parried away, and then from the follow up Borini's cross cum shot flashed across goal.

On 53 minutes Kakuta was denied by some alert goalkeeping as Stewart dived at the playmaker's feet to prevent a second goal after more impressive work down the Chelsea right.

On the hour Hutchinson and Van Aanholt were replaced by Chris Jones and schoolboy Reece Loudon, as Bruma moved inside to centre-half and Jones took up right-back duties.

The name may sound familiar; Jones is actually one of the club's fitness coaches, covering the absence of the Academy for one night only. He has experience at Blue Square Premier level.

With 20 minutes remaining Cifti drove a low free-kick narrowly wide and then Matt Richie curled one on to the bar, Jan Sebek's dive enthusiastic but well beaten.

At the other end Kakuta's stepovers and pass put Borini in but the Italian's left-footed shot was a little tame.

There would be no more goals, and so Chelsea earned another three points and a clean sheet with a solid all-round display, one or two players no doubt impressing Ancelotti, who departed with around three-quarters of the game gone.

Didier Drogba Dubs Sven Goran-Eriksson's Appointment As Ivory Coast manager As 'A Wish Come True'

Didier Drogba is delighted at the news Sven-Goran Eriksson will lead the Ivory Coast to the World Cup in South Africa this summer.

The striker has been in prolific form for club and country this season, and is fully confident that the former England and Mexico manager has the pedigree to help the Elephants reach the latter stages of the summer tournament.

"There is no doubt Sven will succeed. This is someone who knows the game inside out," Drogba told Football365.co.za.

"I have every belief in his ability to take us far and even exceed the targets set for him by the Federation.

"With the little I saw of him while he was in England and what I have heard, read and watched about, I think Sven has come at the right time."

With the appointment coming just over a month after former manager Vahid Halilhodzic was dismissed, Drogba is pleased that someone, let alone a big name like Eriksson, has finally been appointed.

"This is like a wish come true for me and most of my colleagues," he said.

"For weeks and months we have been pondering over going to the World Cup without a coach but what we feared most has taken a different twist.

"Now I don't have to wake up every morning and think about the future of my team without a coach.

"Surely all things will work in line for us with Eriksson in charge.

"As a seasoned coach, he definitely knows how to pull in those surprises when least expected. We have a solid team and that alone solves half of his problem."

With the likes of Salomon Kalou, Emmanuel Eboue and the Toure brothers - Kolo and Yaya - to call upon, Drogba believes Eriksson's squad can become the first African winners of the World Cup and on Africa soil.

"The only problem he will face maybe will be the selection of a winning eleven out of a team full of talents," the Chelsea man said.

"We are going to South Africa to win big. This is not something I am saying alone. It is the general feeling when you talk to the other boys in our team."

Four years ago, the country failed to escape from the group stages after being hotly tipped to progress to at least the semi-finals. But Drogba believes that with Eriksson's expertise that will not happen again.

"Our performance in Germany was not up to what we set out to achieve," he said.

"We have to improve and play much better if we want the other teams to take us serious. This is not a tournament you can go and play just anyhow.

"It has to be better this time round and I hope Sven provides us with that spirit and direction."

Lampard: Credit Where It's Due

Frank Lampard continues his analysis of Saturday's biggest win of the season by discussing the goals scored and the football that led up to them.

Seven goals in one afternoon is good work by anyone's standards and the man who turned four of them into the net wants to pay tribute to the supporting cast.

'The build up was fantastic to all the goals, the penalties as well,' Lampard says. 'It was great football.

'We were more expansive on Saturday and the pitch has improved and we were able to be more confident in our one and two-touch passing.

'The first goal Florent Malouda scored was particularly outstanding. Malouda deserves credit not just on Saturday but for his performances all season. Yury Zhirkov got foward well and Deco played a great pass inside the full-back and that football is the way we want to play.

'Deco has come back into the side and he played well at Portsmouth,' the vice-captain continues.

'He offers some culture and some great passing, and Joe Cole was lively. Of course Didier Drogba has been a great player this season by some distance, but we respect what Nicolas Anelka does as well and the manager's choice was proved right on Saturday.'

It was quick passing and sharp movement that led to Zhirkov winning two penalties out of the Aston Villa central defenders. Then it was up to Lampard to stick the ball in the net from 12 yards out.

'I took some penalties on Friday in training as I always do, and I missed a couple of bad ones,' he reveals.

'Brad Friedel is a top keeper so you know if you don't hit it with enough power and he goes the right way then he can save it, so I just tried to put my foot through the first one.

'The second one is always easier when you have one under your belt already. You can relax a little and it was great to see that second one go in the corner.'

Chelsea Land Major Psychological Blow

That divot, the one that David James blamed for Chelsea’s first goal against Portsmouth last week, when his freakish air-shot allowed Didier Drogba to score, may have just played a pivotal part in how this season could end.

“It was a bit of a turning point,” Frank Lampard said after the 7-1 humiliation of Aston Villa which followed on from the 5-0 destruction at Fratton Park. “We have kicked on from there because having lost ground, and fallen behind in the running when we should have been clear, it’s great now to have a confident outlook on it, and take that to Manchester United.”

Time will tell but that divot will become a piece of hallowed turf for Chelsea supporters by the end of this campaign if, as Lampard claimed, it helped the players out of a “bit of a rut” which had threatened to derail their season and put the future of manager Carlo Ancelotti in doubt. For United fans, if Chelsea do win the title, it may be a new definition of sod’s law.

Certainly Chelsea struck a resounding psychological blow against Villa - watched by Roman Abramovich - which will reverberate even more than the arresting score-line. And that was deafening enough. Villa, whose hopes of finishing fourth have died, had previously conceded just 25 goals in 30 league matches - a rate of one goal per 108 minutes and here were seven in one encounter. It took them eight and a half matches, more than a fifth of the season, to concede as many as rained in on one rainy afternoon in west London.

Lampard accounted for four of those goals and while dealing in statistics it’s worth mentioning that he now has 151 in his Chelsea career — which means he stands third in the all-time scoring chart for the club, below only Kerry Dixon (193) and Bobby Tambling (202). For the past six seasons, Lampard has scored at least 20 times, a model of prolific consistency.

“I set the target to get there, and I’ve got there relatively early this season - it’s not bad for having an average or bad season - as some people say,” he added, pointedly. Although clearly pricked, Lampard’s form has been a concern. Matches have by-passed him of late but he benefited from a brave call by Ancelotti to re-configure his team.

It meant Lampard was central while Nicolas Anelka provided a more mobile point to the attack than Didier Drogba has. Drogba was rested — possibly for the first time ever in his Chelsea career for a league match - and although Anelka did not score he provided a definition to his team when they went forward along with Florent Malouda who is, despite Drogba’s 31 goals, threatening to be the player of the season.

The tactics were key. Villa manager Martin O’Neill got his wrong - John Carew as a lone striker initially, shrinking from the physical battle against John Terry - while he later accused his team of giving up once they had fallen two goals behind. “We have the same opposition in two weeks and if we play like that there’s no point in us turning up,” O’Neill said, referring to the FA Cup semi-final a week on Saturday. “I haven’t seen this kind of performance from them (his team) before. From all of them, including myself, it was unacceptable.

“We stopped doing everything that you’re supposed to do in this professional game - all in half an hour. I don’t want to take anything away from Chelsea who are a very, very fine side but we would have been beaten by a fourth division side on the last half hour’s performance.” Villa were that poor. Chelsea had gone ahead when Lampard slid in at the far post, to meet Malouda’s clever low cross but Villa had drawn level when Carew side-footed home from close-range. Just before half-time and Chelsea re-took the lead with Lampard dispatching a penalty after James Collins had tripped Yuri Zhirkov. After the interval, and with Villa switching to 4-4-2, Malouda scored the pick of the goals with a low shot from a sumptuous build-up orchestrated by Deco and then Lampard claimed his hat-trick, steering in another penalty, after another trip on the quicksilver Zhirkov.

The trauma for Villa continued with Malouda side-footing high into the net and then Anelka, twisting and turning teed up Salomon Kalou. In injury-time, Lampard completed the rout with a predatory strike. Now Chelsea face United.

“We know if we win we can go top, and that will give us a little moral victory,” Lampard said. They have certainly had a psychological boost.

Wolves Plan Mancienne Talks

Wolves will hold talks with Michael Mancienne about his future before the end of the season.

Mancienne is currently on loan at Wolves until the end of the season from Chelsea after being allowed to go out on loan to continue his development.

The England Under-21 international has previously indicated he would be happy to extend his stay at Molineux and McCarthy plans to make a decision on the defender's future in the next few weeks.

McCarthy told the Daily Mirror: "We won't just let the season end without speaking to Chelsea or Michael - whether we say 'Thanks and good luck' or if we'd like to do something else."

Matej Delac Looking Forward To Chelsea Move

Croatian goalkeeper Matej Delac, who will be joining Chelsea in the summer, has expressed his excitement at the move.

It was announced back in September that we had the option to sign the 17-year-old, who has emerged through the ranks at top flight side Inter Zapresic, and he will arrive at Stamford Bridge when he turns 18 in August.

'It's every player's dream to sign for such a big club and to play in the strongest league in the world, and I will be achieving that already at my age,' said the 6ft 3in youngster, who spent a fortnight training with the first team squad at Cobham in December.

'You watch those players on TV and the next thing you know you are with them on the pitch. It's a really huge thing to practice with such big stars,' he continued.

'I was mostly talking with the goalkeepers. Petr Cech complimented me on a few occasions. It was huge stuff for me. I tried to learn from him and I was copying his moves. Now I am following his regime and I hope I will be as good as him one day.'

Delac was the youngest ever debutant in Croatia's top division, saving a penalty on his debut as a 16-year-old last season, eventually making 15 league appearances before being instated as Zapresic's number one this season.

He has received a full call up to the Croatia squad 10 days after his 17th birthday, and has represented his country at Under 16, 17 and 19 levels.

When asked about Delac back in September, manager Carlo Ancelotti said: 'He is very young but he is having very good experience in his country and we think that he can be a very good goalkeeper in the future. Now he will stay in Croatia to play before he comes to play with us.'

Liverpool, Everton, Chelsea And Arsenal Set For Super League

A leading football finance expert has warned organisers of the English Football Association’s Women’s Super League that it may take decades for the league to be a commercial and playing success.

A year from now the FA Women’s Super League will begin with eight teams playing in the competition’s inaugural season. However, Professor Simon Chadwick of Coventry University is sceptical about the league’s short-term success due to England’s social history.

He says: “I think we live in a largely male dominated society and in social terms, women have only started to break down the barriers in the last 30-40 years so I wouldn’t say it is going to be a commercial or playing phenomenon overnight, it’s going to take decades to do it.

Following 16 bids from many existing women’s teams, only eight clubs made the cut for the new league after having to provide information on financial and business management, commercial and marketing, facilities, players and support staff. They are Arsenal Ladies, Birmingham City Ladies, Bristol Academy Women, Chelsea Ladies, Doncaster Rovers Belles, Everton, Lincoln Ladies and Liverpool Ladies.

Chadwick points to the lack of social and structural organisation currently in the women’s game as a problem the new competition will face.

He says: “I think in industrial terms men’s football has got first mover strategic advantage over the women’s game. The structures, culture, resources and organisation are there the organisation is there; women’s football doesn’t have that. It has to set up its own structures and organisation and it has to create an attractive commercial proposition. However, it’s not doing that in isolation, it’s doing it up against competition from the men’s game.

“I would love to see it prosper because I dislike many of the macho aspects of the game as we know it. There’s a strong need for there to be a greater female contribution for the development of sport in this country but I think sadly we are not going to get that any time soon. It will take decades rather than years.”

One reason why The FA developed the new league (under former chief executive Ian Watmore) was to compete with the USA in an attempt to get the best players playing in England. Chadwick believes that it is a completely different situation in the USA because the men’s game there doesn’t have the history that it does in England.

He says: “If you look at the development of women’s football in the USA it’s got completely different social cultural foundations. In Britain men play and women watch.

“Although that’s changed, that’s what it’s been historically. On Shrove Tuesday men always played and women watched. The gender DNA of football is based on that. We are trying to engage in genetic modification to change football from a men’s game to a family game but the cultural heritage is already set. In the USA they didn’t have that and that’s why women’s football in places like china Norway and the USA is taking off. Women in this country have had a subsidiary role in the last 150 years.”

According to The FA, 1.1million girls currently play football in England. Chadwick does see a positive future for the women’s game in and believes it could attract a good television deal and sponsors. However he thinks it will never run alongside the men’s Premier League.

He said: “I think what it will be is that it will become well established but it won’t be mass market it will be a very strong niche market. If you look at MotoGP and Nascar it’s incredibly strong commercially but its not strong in this country, it’s a niche sport. It’s not the NFL, it’s not the NBA - it appeals to a particular set of people.

“I think women’s football could become strong and vibrant and there could be some nice sponsors involved with good TV deals. The national team may prosper and win something like the World Cup but I don’t think it will become mass market like the Premier League has become.”

Britain’s Minister for Sport, Gerry Sutcliffe thinks the Super League will be a catalyst for more female participation in football.

He commented: “It’s fantastic that the Women’s Super League is a step closer to getting off the ground. Women’s football is one of the fastest growing sports in the country but there is still room for further growth. The Super League will shine the spotlight even brighter on the women’s game, encourage more young women to take up the sport and help develop stars that will represent the ever-improving women’s national team.”

Chelsea Among 14 Premier League Clubs Blacklisted By Credit Agency

UK credit agency Riskdisk has “suspended” credit ratings for 14 of the 20 English Premier League clubs, including title-chasing Chelsea, according to a report in London’s The Times newspaper.

Aston Villa, Liverpool, Birmingham City, Bolton Wanderers, Burnley, Everton, Fulham, Hull City, Manchester City, Portsmouth, Stoke City, Wigan Athletic and Wolverhampton Wanderers are the other clubs with a suspended rating.

Companies trading with the blacklisted clubs are advised to withdraw credit terms - but the rating only takes into account clubs’ publicly listed financial results, and only concerns the clubs’ operating companies, not their holding companies. Rob McLaughlin, the director of Riskdisk, said: “The ratings do not predict what a wealthy backer may do. They are based on information available from sources such as Companies House and from the courts. There is no assumption made that a shareholder may put more money in.”

In January, another credit firm, Experian, blacklisted eight clubs and placed five on its “financial critical” list, though it also suggested that Manchester United, Arsenal and Blackburn Rovers represented “good risks” for potential lenders.

The news comes in the week that European soccer’s governing body Uefa revealed the outline of its new “financial fair play” policy, aimed at protecting the game from the potentially crippling long-term effects of debt and limiting the inflationary influence of hyper-wealthy backers. Under the new terms, clubs will be expected to return to break-even figures via a staggered transition period. Losses will be expected not to exceed €15 million up to 2014 (€5 million over three seasons if not underwritten by club owners) and €10 million up to 2017. Uefa will reserve the right to exclude those clubs which fail to bring their finances under control from European competition. According to their most recently available accounts, fifteen Premier League clubs are currently operating at a loss.

Uefa inspectors will also be called in to investigate clubs where wages exceed 70 per cent of turnover, or where debt is in excess of annual revenue, in order to ascertain that such imbalances are sustainable. Clubs will no longer be allowed to harness debt other than to invest in infrastructural projects or to develop youth systems. Debt is an enormous problem in European football, particularly in the “big five” leagues: England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France. According to figures released by Uefa as part of its European Footballing Landscape study, net debt across the continent - including so-called “soft loans” from benefactors - stands at around €7.7 billion.

Sport Media Scores For Chelsea Football Club

Chelsea Football Club has reached an agreement with Trinity Mirror's Sport Media to publish the club's official magazine and matchday program from next season.

Sport Media won the three-year contract after a competitive tender process. The deal, which kicks off in July, comes on the back of a partnership that is already underway to produce official books for the club.

Sport Media will manage a dedicated team of writers (based at Stamford Bridge and the club's Cobham training facility), graphic artists and advertising sales staff. The team will report to Emma Wilkinson, Chelsea Football Club's head of communications and community affairs, who says:

'We are excited to be working with Sport Media - their approach has been really professional and they have a tremendous amount of enthusiasm for taking Chelsea's publications forward next season.'

Chelsea publish 12 monthly magazines (each issue is sent to over 45,000 members and season ticket holders, as well as being sold in leading retailers) and around 25 matchday program each year.

Mark Dickinson, business development director of Sport Media says: 'The opportunity to work closely with a top team like Chelsea over the next three years is one we approach with relish, and we can't wait to get started. We have loads of great ideas.'

Sport Media is an award-winning set-up with a track record for producing outstanding football program and magazines. Their national publishing list extends from Davis Cup program and an exclusive magazine for this year's Ryder Cup to bookazines with the Daily Mirror.

The book deal, negotiated by Neil Blair of The Christopher Little Literary Agency on behalf of Chelsea, and James White of Sport Media, will see Sport Media publishing all the club's official books for the next two years.

Richard Milham, head of global merchandise at Chelsea FC, says: 'Chelsea is excited to be working with Sport Media as our publisher. They have an excellent track record publishing sporting titles and working with big sporting organisations. Our hope is that Chelsea fans will read some interesting and insightful books about the club.'

James White, business development manager at Sport Media says: 'We are delighted to be working with a club of Chelsea's stature and hope this will be the start of a long and successful partnership. Chelsea have a large and loyal fanbase, and we look forward to producing a series of fantastic books for them.'

Chelsea Launch Inside Right Initiative

The Chelsea first team squad was joined by two British war heroes at Stamford Bridge last week as they launched a new initiative for returning soldiers.

The Inside Right program will help veterans adjust to civilian life after returning from active service, using football as a tool through a program of social activity, and offering veterans access to coaching qualifications and the opportunity to undertake different volunteering roles.

We are joined by Everton, Portsmouth, Colchester United and Lincoln City on the scheme, which will be managed by the Football Foundation.

John Terry, who was at the event alongside Lance Corporal Johnson Beharry VC and Major Phil Packer, is pleased the club is able to help.

'I am really pleased that Chelsea and four other football clubs are playing their part in helping our servicemen and women return to civilian life,' he said. 'They have risked their lives serving our country and they are the real heroes in my opinion, and we are rightly proud of them.

'I am fully behind the Inside Right program and it is perhaps football's way of recognising all of our military personnel for the sacrifices that they make on our behalf.'

Lance Corporal Beharry VC was also delighted to see the initiative begin, and believes a sense of unity can help returning servicemen and women avoid the social problems that often arise when they are discharged.

'Inside Right is a great idea,' he said. 'It can be a big adjustment when you return home after serving abroad, so to be part of a team again will give our men and women a real boost just when they need it.'

Inside Right is supported through funding from the Royal British Legion, the Ministry of Defence, ABF The Soldiers' Charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund and Comic Relief. The Mental Health Foundation and Combat Stress are also key stakeholders in the program’s development.

Ancelotti Puts Faith In Attack

Carlo Ancelotti insists that Chelsea's brand of attacking football can sweep them to the Premier League title.

Chelsea goes to Manchester United next weekend brimming with confidence after destroying Aston Villa 7-1 at Stamford Bridge.

Four goals from Frank Lampard, two from Florent Malouda and another from substitute Salomon Kalou, gave Chelsea their second seven-goal haul of the season at Stamford Bridge.

Villa's in-form striker John Carew had briefly stunned the Blues with a 29th-minute equaliser but Chelsea were back in front before the interval and then slammed another five past stunned Villa in second-half.

It took their goal tally to 82 for the season and 12 in their past two outings since shaking off their Champions League exit to Inter Milan and a disappointing draw at Blackburn.

Chelsea face United at Old Trafford next week knowing victory will put them two points clear of their rivals at the top of the table.

The Blues briefly went back to the summit with victory over Villa but United's 4-0 win over Bolton restored their one-point advantage.

Now the Chelsea coach believes they have found the key that can land them the title in his first season at the club.

"When we play our best attacking football, we are able to overcome any defence," said Ancelotti.

"It is important that we play our best football until the end of the season in the Premier League and the FA Cup.

"We can make this a fantastic season if we finish in the right way."

Since Chelsea's defeat by Inter in Europe and their disappointing 1-1 draw at Blackburn last Sunday, the Blues have swept aside Portsmouth 5-0 at Fratton Park and Villa, their FA Cup semi-final opponents, 7-1.

Chelsea have switched back to a more familiar 4-3-3 formation and the change has given them renewed belief they can win the title with goals galore.

"We always want to play attacking football and this is how we started on Wednesday against Portsmouth, with an attacking team, which is why we are now the top scoring team in the Premier League," added the Italian.

"I think we have shown that we have the mentality to recover well and the players performed how I would have liked us to."

The architect of Villa's downfall was 31-year-old Lampard. He opened the scoring and went on to hit four - two of them from the penalty spot as he reached 151 goals since joining from West Ham in 2001.

The quartet made him the club's third highest goalscorer in its history - overtaking legends Roy Bentley and Peter Osgood - and the midfielder was understandably delighted with his achievement.

"I'm very proud," declared Lampard. "I've passed Peter Osgood, I took a few more games, but I'm very honoured to be among those sort of names."

The Chelsea midfielder now believes they have silenced the critics who were ready to write off their title challenge and he insists they will go to Old Trafford with no fear.

"People will write us off, it is very easy to write us off from the outside," added Lampard. "But all we can do is play football. We have put it right in the last two games but we know there are big games are to come, particularly next week.

"We will look at that game with confidence. We understand the importance of it and United will understand that as well. We have to prepare right for it. It is nice to go into the game with confidence and out of that little rut we've been in. Our passing and movement against Villa was fantastic - it was great football and that is when we are at our best."

Lampard Targets United Clash

Frank Lampard has set his sights on Chelsea's title showdown with Manchester United after the Blues demolished Aston Villa.

Lampard scored four times in the 7-1 romp at Stamford Bridge to set up an enthralling clash at Old Trafford on Easter Saturday.

The Red Devils still hold a one-point advantage over their rivals following their 4-0 win at Bolton, while Arsenal have slipped four points behind the leaders after being held 1-1 at Birmingham.

Chelsea enjoyed a 1-0 success over Sir Alex Ferguson's reigning champions on home turf back in November and Lampard feels that triumph, coupled with their victories this season over the Gunners and Liverpool, proves they can claim top spot.

Lampard told reporters: "We know the quality of the players we have, we've shown that over the course of the season.

"We've beaten Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal playing different formations.

"Now we have to focus on what we have to do - we look forward to going to Old Trafford."

Lampard felt obliged to make peace with the West London club's fans after their UEFA Champions League exit and the disappointments of the shock home defeat by Manchester City and recent draw at Blackburn.

The England midfielder, who has now hit at least 20 goals in six successive seasons and has moved up to third in Chelsea's all-time scorers list, believed the rout of top-four hopefuls Villa was one of their finest he has been involved in.

He added: "We've had a few poor performances recently and we have to apologise to the fans for that.

"But hopefully this makes up for those and now we can concentrate on what we know we have to do because if we win all our remaining matches, we will be champions.

"We have to forget the little rut we have had and concentrate on the target.

"It's up there with our best performances. There was a 6-0 against Manchester City and then a 2-0 against Villa last season, when it could have been six or seven.

"This is right up there because we were playing a very good team. They've got good players throughout their team so when you do that to them, well, you can't say enough about the performance."

Chelsea With Take On Manchester United With ‘Utmost Confidence’ - Ray Wilkins

Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins has admitted the Blues will take on Premier League title rivals Manchester United full of confidence after thrashing Aston Villa 7-1 at Stamford Bridge.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men gave their title hopes, and their goal difference, a significant boost following Saturday’s demolition of Villa, however United’s 4-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers means the champions remain top of the table by a point.

Next weekend sees the Blues head to Old Trafford in a match which could go a long way to deciding the Premier League title and Wilkins admits the west Londoners are up for the challenge.

“We will go to Manchester United with the utmost confidence because we are playing good football, defending well and attacking with pace and power," Wilkins told Press Association Sport.

"We are looking a good side again.

"I am not sure what message it [beating Aston Villa 7-1] sends out, but as far as we are concerned in the camp, we are delighted with the way things are going.”

The 53-year-old also conceded he believed the title race could still be decided on the final day of the season and predicted more twists and turns to come.

"We are playing some very good football and the work ethic is absolutely top draw,” he added.

"We have a group of winners. The goal difference is in our favour but I still think there are many more twists and turns to come and I think it will go to the wire.

"The guys were first class. They played some lovely football and scored some very good goals and their work ethic was first class.

"The winning is the most important part but is always nice to score lots of goals."

Chelsea saw Frank Lampard hit four against their FA Cup semi-final opponents, while Florent Malouda scored twice and Salomon Kalou completed the rout.

Chelsea Striker Didier Drogba Rules Out Marseille Return

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has ruled out a return to Marseille despite constant speculation that he could again play for the club where he made his name.

The 32-year-old hitman spent a season at Marseille in 2003/2004 and scored 18 goals in 35 appearances for OM.

Drogba is widely quoted in France this morning following an interview with Orange Sport and the Ivorian striker says: "A return? Not likely... My name comes up often when it comes to boosting subscriptions. We must be realistic. I am not greedy financially, but I reached a certain level that I hope to keep."

He also backed Marseille to finish the season strongly after winning the French League Cup last night: "It could maybe start the latter part of their season and maybe they could go on and win the Championship."

In 2009/2010 Didier Drogba has scored 27 goals in 31 appearances for Carlo Ancelotti’s Chelsea side but he missed the 7-1 victory over Aston Villa on Saturday due to injury.

Fabulous Frank

Charlie Nicholas was full of praise for Frank Lampard after his four goals inspired Chelsea to a 7-1 rout of Aston Villa.

The England midfielder's quartet - two of which came from the penalty spot - will make the headlines but Nicholas, watching the game in the Soccer Saturday studio, insists Lampard's all-round display was excellent and helped Chelsea turn a potentially tricky match into a canter.

"Even at half-time when they (Chelsea) were 2-1 up, there was a lot of tension in the air. They didn't play brilliantly in the first half, Villa didn't do a lot wrong and if anything, I thought Villa were the slightly better team," Nicholas told Soccer Saturday.

"But Lampard dragged them out of the situation, and now that Ballack is not in there beside him you can see the freedom he's got.

"We spoke earlier about relieving the free space for people like Steven Gerrard, Lampard's the same type of intelligent footballer. He can see space, he works off people when they leave it for him and he's quick to pick it up.

"And I know he's got four goals today but his all-round performance, he was the guy that took them to the next level."

The Blues only led 2-1 at the interval and seemed set for a thorough test in the second period, but they ended up making light work of Villa and Nicholas says a large part of that was down to two-goal winger Florent Malouda.

"You did think that Chelsea might start to rock a little bit. The full-backs are still a problem, Peter Cech's back in goal but you can see he's needing a couple of games to get going.

"But when the second half started, Villa completely collapsed and Chelsea were ruthless.

"Malouda looks like a man refreshed. He's enjoying the system he works in, he's scoring a few goals but he's taking part in the game.

"He's not just staying rigid wide left, he's getting inside, he's scoring goals, he's looking the complete player again and he's bang in form.

"It's a big statement but of course next up is Manchester United away!" said Nicholas.

Europe-chasing Villa can get swift revenge over Chelsea in the sides' upcoming FA Cup semi-final, but Nicholas thinks that following the crushing defeat at Stamford Bridge, Martin O'Neill's men could embark upon a poor run.

"It just happens sometimes in football that over 45 minutes, things don't go right and the heads go down. And maybe there is that bit of mental fatigue where they just submit and accept it, but it was dismal and the toughest thing for Martin will be to pick them up."

"The Villa fans like a moan and a groan and I think they're away again next week so they can get it out of their system, but this will take a lot of coming back from," he added.

Chelsea And Spurs In Fight To Land African Starlet

Tottenham and Chelsea are competing for the new rising star of African football.

Nigerian striker Sani Emmanuel has had trials at Chelsea who were impressed by the 17 year-old.

But so were Tottenham, where the player voted the best player in tournament by FIFA in the world Under-17 championships in Nigeria earlier this season, was offered an extended stay.

Emmanuel plays for the My People football club in Nigeria and had a brief spell with Swedish club Bodens BK.

Tottenham appear to have the edge in the race to sign Emmanuel and rather than ask for a transfer fee, the My People club want a long-term relationship with the club Emmanuel joins.

It will mean trials for promising players and donations of kit and equipment.

Arizona Club Joins Chelsea U.S. Youth Soccer Network

Chelsea Football Club increases our partnerships with America's leading youth soccer clubs to seven with the announcement that Sereno Soccer Club of Phoenix joins our growing U.S. youth club network.

Chelsea FC chief executive Ron Gourlay said: 'Sereno Soccer Club has been developing soccer for more than 30 years in Arizona and this partnership will assist them in taking it to the next level and expanding their reach and impact on the game.

'Our youth club network is designed to create long-term growth and sustainability of soccer in America by supporting elite youth clubs that provide the best soccer instruction and experience for local players.'

Sereno director of coaching David Robertson expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: 'We see this as a very positive step forward for our players and coaching staff. Getting access to the Chelsea FC Youth Academy programming and coaches will help us to ensure that our training programs are world class. We're also excited to give kids from all over the Valley access to Chelsea FC coaching through Sereno-Chelsea sponsored events, camps and clinics right here in Phoenix.'

Sereno SC is one of the leading soccer education and training organizations in the U.S. They are perennially ranked the no. 1 youth soccer club in Arizona. Over the past 30 years, the club has produced 46 Arizona State champion boys teams, 80 Arizona State champion girls teams, nine regional champions, three national finalists and one national champion.

Chelsea's U.S. youth club network supports the development of soccer in America and Sereno Soccer Club will learn the Chelsea FC coaching philosophy and curriculum, host training sessions and camps with Chelsea coaches, benefit from Chelsea-sponsored tournaments and participate in player exchange programs.

Chelsea announced our first youth soccer club partnership with CASL of North Carolina in July 2008. Other Chelsea U.S. youth club partners include Match Fit Chelsea of New Jersey, LAFC Chelsea of Los Angeles, the Baltimore Bays, the Le Jardin Academy based in Hawaii and Solar Soccer Club of Dallas.

Chelsea Expands U.S. Youth Soccer Partnership To Dallas

Coinciding with the Chelsea Academy's visit to the United States to play in the Dallas Cup this week, Chelsea Football Club has announced a partnership with Solar Soccer Club of Dallas, one of America's leading youth soccer clubs.

As part of the Chelsea youth club network, Solar Soccer Club will learn the Chelsea FC coaching philosophy and curriculum, host training sessions and camps with Chelsea coaches, benefit from Chelsea-sponsored tournaments and participate in player exchange programs.

Chelsea FC chief executive Ron Gourlay said: 'Our youth club network is designed to create long-term growth and sustainability of soccer in America by supporting elite youth clubs that provide the best soccer instruction and experience for local players.

'Dallas is a great sports city in America and the growth of soccer there at both the youth and professional level is significant. Partnering with Solar allows us to continue to help the development of soccer in Texas by staying closely connected to the community through a top club. Solar's mission of Soccer Excellence Through Development is perfectly aligned with our youth club network goals.'

Solar director of coaching Kevin Smith expressed his excitement: 'This is a big deal for our club and for youth soccer in the Dallas area.Chelsea is very selective in clubs they ask to join their network so for us to be on board further proves that Solar is among the elite clubs in the country. Using Chelsea FC's training curriculum and having their coaches involved with our kids will take our club to the next level. It's an exciting time for us.'

With more than 30 years in developing top soccer players in the Dallas area, Solar SC is proven to be a benchmark of elite soccer programs in the U.S.Solar SC alumni include a number of current professional players such as Corben Bone (Chicago Fire), Drew Moor (Colorado Rapids), Kenny Cooper (Plymouth Argyle) and more.

Chelsea announced our first youth soccer club partnership with CASL of North Carolina in July 2008. Other Chelsea U.S. youth club partners include Match Fit Chelsea of New Jersey, LAFC Chelsea of Los Angeles, the Baltimore Bays, Le Jardin Academy based in Hawaii and Soreno Soccer Club of Phoenix.