• Premier League

Drogba gives up on title defence

Didier Drogba has had a tough time at Chelsea in recent months, with his place under threat from Fernando Torres © PA Photos

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Didier Drogba has effectively conceded the Premier League title to Manchester United, but is determined to secure Chelsea's place in next season's Champions League for owner Roman Abramovich.

Drogba has endured a tough season personally as, after making a flying start he went off the boil and was subsequently found to be suffering from malaria. He understandably took a long time to return to full fitness and form, while he has also found his place in the side come under threat following the arrival of Fernando Torres.

The Ivory Coast forward fired Chelsea to victory against West Brom on Saturday to keep their mathematical hopes of defending the title alive, but it is Champions League qualification that is his priority and he wants to do it for Abramovich. Interestingly, he failed to include manager Carlo Ancelotti in his statement of intent.

"Let's be honest, it is going to be difficult [to catch Man United] but we can put some pressure maybe on Arsenal for second place," Drogba told ChelseaTV. "Let's see, but we have to win our games.

"It was a good afternoon against West Bromwich. It was good to start winning again and it is important we secure third place."

Reflecting on a turbulent season, Drogba said: "Everybody knows I was ill and it was difficult for me and it was difficult for the club because I couldn't give 100 per cent, but that is life.

"It is a difficult season but now we have to prepare for the next season by winning these games. It is important for the club to be in the Champions League next season and finish in the best place we can, for the fans, for the owner as he is doing a lot for Chelsea, and for us."

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