When you have a squad that is so packed with talented individuals, it seems churlish to even suggest that there are around four or five players who generally make the team tick. Without these players Chelsea just wouldn’t be on the same level.
1. JOHN TERRY (England, Central defender)
Captaining both Chelsea and England John Terry sets the standard for the other players to adhere to. A skilful and brave defender, he has incredible skill and a technically sound style. Not afraid to lead by example and always managers to be a danger for teams set pieces, John Terry is the perfect choice to captain Chelsea and England.
2. ASHLEY COLE (England, Left back)
He may not be the most popular player amongst Arsenal fans, but despite their bile, Ashley Cole is still, arguably, the best left back in world soccer. Certainly he has struggled for form and confidence at times, but at his best his marauding runs down the left and quality balls into the box are only matched by his ability to shut down some of the world’s best players. In games against him the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been kept relatively quiet. That’s no fluke, only a world class left back can pull it off.
3. MIKAEL ESSIEN (Ghana, Central midfielder)
Injury robbed Chelsea of Essien for a large chunk of last season and his absence was keenly felt, even in a midfield that boasts so many outstanding, world class players. Essien balances the team perfectly. He is a technically gifted soccer player with a great work rate and defensive skill. He gets forward well and packs a powerful shot from distance. The 24.4 million pounds Chelsea paid to land the midfielder from Lyon in the summer of 2005 looks to be a bargain at today’s prices.
4. FRANK LAMPARD (England, Central Midfielder)
What’s a team without a midfielder who can score plenty of goals? Lampard is one of the best around. He has started scoring goals again this season due to Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to give him a slightly deeper role in the team. Frank Lampard is a vital source of attacking strength due to his accurate shooting and ability to link play with his strikers.
5. DIDIER DROGBA (Ivory Coast, Attacker)
It is hard to dispute the claim that Didier Drogba is the best striker in the world at the moment. Didier Drogba wearing the 09/10 Chelsea jersey makes all defenders fear the upcoming game. He may argue with officials and opposing players and fall over at the slightest touch but at times he can be unstoppable. His goal scorring ability and excellent presence are vital for Chelsea, and at times he has carried the team on his back. He alone may end Manchester United’s dominance of the Premier League.
