When you have a squad that is so packed with talented individuals, it seems churlish to even suggest that there are around four or five players who generally make the team tick. In this article we take a look at five Chelsea players who seem to hold an inordinate amount of influence on how the team performs.
1. JOHN TERRY (England, Central defender)
Captaining both Chelsea and England John Terry sets the standard for the other players to adhere to. A skilful and brave defender, what often gets lost in the plaudits given to Terry is that he is a very technically sound defender. Always a danger at set pieces and never afraid to lead by example, John Terry is the perfect choice to captain Chelsea and England.
2. ASHLEY COLE (England, Left back)
He may not be the most popular player amongst Arsenal fans, although he is still considered by many to be the best left back in the soccer world. At times he may struggle for confidence and form, but at his best his marauding runs down the left and quality balls into the box are only matched by his ability to shut down some of the world’s best players. He is known for keeping players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi quiet in games. That’s no fluke, not many other left backs could do the job.
3. MIKAEL ESSIEN (Ghana, Central midfielder)
Essien’s injury last season showed how sorely he could be missed,despite the team being filled with outstanding midfielders. Essien helps balance the midfield. With first class defensive skill and a high work rate not to mention a great intelligence for the game. He gets forward at the right time along with a powerful and accurate kicking game from a distance. The 24.4 million pounds Chelsea paid to land the midfielder from Lyon in the summer of 2005 looks to be a bargain at today’s prices.
4. FRANK LAMPARD (England, Central Midfielder)
Who wouldn’t want a player like Lampard in the midifled scoring handfuls of goals. He has shown a great return to form under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti and as a result his goal tally has been increasing dramatically. His accurate shooting from distance, willingness to join in with attacks and link play with Chelsea’s wide players and strikers are a vital source of attacking strength for the team.
5. DIDIER DROGBA (Ivory Coast, Attacker)
Considered by many to be the best striker in the world at the moment, and its hard to argue the point considering his current form. Didier Drogba wearing the Chelsea soccer jersey makes all goalkeepers fear the upcoming game. He may argue with officials and opposing players and fall over at the slightest touch but at times he can be unstoppable. His goal scorring ability and excellent presence are vital for Chelsea, and at times he has carried the team on his back. His skill may give Chelsea what they need to end Manchester United’s recent dominance of the Premier League.