Drogba Reiterates Olympics Stance

The African nation are widely-expected to mount a strong challenge for the gold medal in China, and are prepared to call up a number of their top European-based players in order to boost their chances.

And Drogba, whose own club future is unclear at the present time amid persistent rumours over a move to Italy or Spain, has revealed that he would welcome the opportunity to represent his nation at the Games.

"Going to the Olympics is a dream for any player," Drogba said to Sport.

"I have played in the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup so to complete the set with the Olympics would be great."

Chelsea team-mate Salomon Kalou, Arsenal star Kolo Toure and Tottenham's Didier Zokora are all believed to have made themselves available for the trip to China along with Drogba, meaning that the Ivorians, who are enjoying a fast improving reputation on the world stage, have a vast array of talent to select from.

The Olympics football tournament is an under-23 event, but each participating nation are allowed to name three players who are over the age limit in their squad, so three of the Premier League quartet could be selected.

The tournament takes place late in the summer and will overlap the early matches of the 2008/09 season Premier League season, causing concerns for the respective clubs who have players involved.

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has already expressed his worry at losing a number of players to the Olympics, while Chelsea's new boss will be disappointed to hear his star striker making himself unavailable for domestic action, although it is unclear weather Drogba will still be at Stamford Bridge by the time the tournament begins.

Chris Myson, Goal.com