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. This article outlines the players that without them Chelsea wouldn’t be able to compete.
1. JOHN TERRY (England, Central defender)
Terry is captain of club and country and he sets the benchmark which the other Chelsea players adhere to. A skilful and brave defender, showing technically sound style and a great amount of skill. Always a danger at set pieces and never afraid to lead by example, he is a fine example of a strong team leader and an outstanding choice as captain of the club and his country.
2. ASHLEY COLE (England, Left back)
He may not be the most popular player amongst Arsenal fans, despite the criticism Ashley Cole is still considered by many to be the best left back in the world. Certainly he has struggled for form and confidence at times, 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, that is because Ashley Cole is a world class left back.
3. MIKAEL ESSIEN (Ghana, Central midfielder)
Last seasons injury made all Chelsea fans realise how important a role Mikael Essien played,even in a team filled with a world class midfield. Essien gives the midfield wonderful balance. His energy, work rate and defensive skills are first class, but he is also a technically gifted soccer player of great intelligence. With a powerful shot from a distance and the ability to go forward at the right time making him an asset to the team. At today’s prices the 24.4 million pounds that it cost to buy him looks like a bargin.
4. FRANK LAMPARD (England, Central Midfielder)
Every team needs a midfielder like Lampard who can weigh in with plenty of goals, if they are to be successful. Lampard is one of the best around. This season he has been deployed in a slightly deeper role under Carlo Ancelotti and the result has been a marked return to form for the midfielder and the goals are once again going in. Frank Lampard is a vital source of attacking strength due to his accurate shooting and ability to link play with his strikers.
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 new Chelsea soccer kit makes all defenders fear the upcoming game. The big striker may have his critics, who lambaste his theatrics when he falls over when tackled, or who bristle at his continual insistence to argue with officials and opposition players, but on his day the Ivorian striker is unstoppable. His presence, goals and power are a key element of Carlo Ancelotti’s Chelsea and at times this season, he has carried the team on his back. He alone may end Manchester United’s dominance of the Premier League.
Five of the best soccer players in the world contributing to one of the best teams.
