|
|
Andre Villas-Boas: Chelsea in talks with Didier Drogba over contract extension
The Blues boss has been impressed by the form of the forward in recent weeks and admits Anelka and Alex aren't currently training with the squad following transfer requests.
Dec 9, 2011 4:25:00 PM
By Omar Shahid
Getty Images
Chelsea is discussing a contract extension with striker Didier Drogba following his continued “outstanding” performances for the club, admits manager Andre Villas-Boas.
The Ivorian’s current deal at Stamford Bridge runs out at the end of the season and the Blues are reportedly willing to offer a 12-month extension.
Drogba, 33, scored a brace against Valencia in Chelsea’s 3-0 win and Villas-Boas has been thrilled with his striker’s form.
"His level of performance has been outstanding, helping the club and team-mates," the Portuguese told reporters. "Of course, the club have to agree that players who perform are the players who should continue. It's an ongoing talk with him and his people.
"Also, we have to recall that he's going to the African Nations Cup and won't be back until Feb. 12, so there's a lot to decide. But his professionalism and integrity will never be in question, regardless with what happens with his contract."
Fellow striker Anelka and defender Alex have both been linked with moves away from the club since handing in transfer requests and the Blues boss has admitted the pair aren't training with the team.
Villas-Boas claims the door has not shut on either player, though, adding: "They are not training with us for the moment. But it doesn't mean it can't change.
"The transfer requests have been accepted so they will be linked to everybody in the world. For sure, it will continue until the transfer window opens."
The Ivorian’s current deal at Stamford Bridge runs out at the end of the season and the Blues are reportedly willing to offer a 12-month extension.
Drogba, 33, scored a brace against Valencia in Chelsea’s 3-0 win and Villas-Boas has been thrilled with his striker’s form.
"His level of performance has been outstanding, helping the club and team-mates," the Portuguese told reporters. "Of course, the club have to agree that players who perform are the players who should continue. It's an ongoing talk with him and his people.
"Also, we have to recall that he's going to the African Nations Cup and won't be back until Feb. 12, so there's a lot to decide. But his professionalism and integrity will never be in question, regardless with what happens with his contract."
Fellow striker Anelka and defender Alex have both been linked with moves away from the club since handing in transfer requests and the Blues boss has admitted the pair aren't training with the team.
Villas-Boas claims the door has not shut on either player, though, adding: "They are not training with us for the moment. But it doesn't mean it can't change.
"The transfer requests have been accepted so they will be linked to everybody in the world. For sure, it will continue until the transfer window opens."
Follow Goal.com on 
to get the latest soccer news directly. Check out Goal.com's 
page; be part of the best soccer fan community in the world!
to get the latest soccer news directly. Check out Goal.com's page; be part of the best soccer fan community in the world!
Inside Goal.Com
-
EURO 2012: Cristiano Ronaldo, Xavi and Van Persie named in Goal.com's dream team XI
Goal.com put together its dream team for this summer's European Championship in Poland and Ukraine
-
RIGG: Anelka struggling against the current in Shanghai
Nicolas Anelka went against the grain when he moved to Shanghai. Now he's finding that coaching and gelling tactically is like swimming against the tide.
-
ROGERS: Bradley should command a bidding war among Serie A teams
Chievo is currently shopping the American midfielder and several Italian clubs have shown interest.
-
ISOLA: Neymar-led Brazil should be considered the 2014 WC favorite
Neymar was brilliant as Brazil easily handled the United States with early World Cup preparations officially underway.
-
LATHAM: Mexico using summer friendlies to build depth
With World Cup qualifying to begin in June, Mexico is using three U.S.-hosted friendlies to build squad depth.