• Premier League

AVB changes mind on 'outstanding' Drogba

ESPN staff
December 9, 2011
Didier Drogba was on form against Valencia © Getty Images
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Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has given his strongest indication yet that the "outstanding" Didier Drogba will be offered a new contract at the club.

Drogba's current deal expires at the end of the season, with it recently appearing that Villas-Boas would be prepared to let the Ivorian follow compatriot Salomon Kalou out of the exit door at Stamford Bridge next summer.

But the 33-year-old has shown his worth in recent weeks - in particular scoring twice against Valencia to ease the Blues into the knockout stages of the Champions League - and claimed this week that he has at least another three years left at the highest level.

The former Marseille hitman is reportedly holding out for at least a two-year extension from Chelsea, and Villas-Boas admits that he now believes the striker still has a lot of football left at the very highest level.

The Portuguese will have to work quickly to secure Drogba's future, however, with the player able to speak to other clubs about a summer transfer in January.

"I agree with that," Villas-Boas said, when told of Drogba's comments. "His level of performance has been outstanding, helping the club and team-mates.

"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 February 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."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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