Didier Drogba made his first start for Chelsea against Schalke in the Champions League since returning to the club in the summer free transfer. The striker has so far been utilised as an impact player by manager Jose Mourinho. After recently being left out of the squad entirely due to knee injuries, the striker went straight back into the team. However, the fans were left disappointed with the performances of the 36-year-old, who appeared like a shadow of himself. He did not have much opportunities, but came very close to scoring with his effort in the second half.
Chelsea failed to win and could only draw the match 1-1. Cesc Fabregas scored the only goal for Chelsea early in the first half while Schalke equalised in second-half. The failure to win against a struggling German team has raised questions about Drogba’s ability to succeed at the top level once again. The striker, though, revealed in his post-match interview that he has been struggling with knee injuries and this was the first time he played without any pain. He is expecting much better performances once he starts to get his fitness back. Drogba has been nomadic in the last few years since leaving Chelsea. He has played in China and lastly in Turkey with Galatasaray.
“I’m like a diesel, I need time. The good thing is [there is] no pain in the ankle, so now I can start working and training and improve the condition. I had [chances], especially the one in the second half. It was a clear chance and I think it’s unlucky. If I score there’s no more game. The fact that you don’t score, they still believe in the equaliser and that’s what happened afterwards,” said Drogba. Chelsea’s next match is against Manchester City at the Etihad stadium on Sunday.
