By dixon9
March 14 2007

The Telegraph and The Times have published “exclusive” interviews by Didier Drogba although it appears that neither actually interviewed him – rather the quotes were taken from L´Equipe to whom the actual interview was granted. Cole also spoke to Sky News.

The Sun appear to have even taken comments from the broadsheets and "refined" the players comments even more!

I´d assume that certain "advantages" may have been taken by the respective journalists during the translation process - Interesting nonetheless:

 

"Clearly there are some tensions at the club right now," he said on route to Geneva to be appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations. "It doesn't take a genius to see that not only are there arguments between the different management branches but also that those arguments are having a negative effect on the team's performances. Just look at the last few weeks. When the bosses and the manager are not rowing in the same direction, there are bound to be repercussions."

Although “The Drog” insists that the squad is right behind Mourinho: 

 

"Let's get one thing clear," Drogba said, "When Mourinho says we need new players to help us achieve our ambitions, he is talking on behalf of the whole group. All the players here feel the same way as him."

And on the subject of urgently required players not arriving?: 

 

"I don't know the answer, but I can tell you that all the players are behind him. Before people criticise him they should remember what he has achieved at the club. A few years ago the club was not in the same league. He has instilled a winning mentality at Chelsea and he is definitely the right man to take us to another level."

It has also been said that John Terry had consulted Mourinho on whether he’ll be at Chelsea next season as the Chelsea captain had a new 150K a week contract to sign before him:

"That is typical JT.  Even when he is being offered the best contract imaginable, he stays cool and strong. It shows that he is a great captain, but also that he knows how important the manager is for the future of this club."

What about the “Chelsea Crisis”?

"When you consider that we are still on course for four titles, how can you even mention such a word? If this is a crisis, then I can honestly say that I am happy to be in a crisis."

What about the fact that you could end being named Footballer of the Year?

"I am having the best season of my career.  I have really found my feet now in this country and I'm enjoying my football again. I had a low point towards the end of last season and that is why I was close to leaving the club, but now I am at my best ever level."

Drogba had considered his future due to fierce criticism and the fact that a lot of the media took advantage of his inability to express himself in English properly:

"Yes the criticism about diving, handballs and stuff like that hurt," but I spoke with the manager and friends and realised that only the best are criticised. In a sense, it was a form of flattery. I also think that my honest views about the way football is played these days have upset some, especially in England where morals are very high. When you look at my statistics for my first two seasons at Chelsea, I don't think there is anything to be ashamed of, but I do agree that I am playing at a different level now. I feel at home in a big club and on the big stage. I guess it is just a pity that so many people seem determined to knock me and my team-mates down all the time."

And on recent criticism of 30M strike partner, Shevchenko:

"Everyone at Chelsea wants Sheva to succeed in England and I am absolutely sure that he will get there.  It takes foreign players time to adjust to the pace and physical nature of English football; I should know. But he has helped us qualify for the Carling Cup final by scoring two goals on Tuesday and that will give him some confidence."

So, you’ve been named as a UN Ambassador?

"It is a great honour for me to be named Ambassador.  I am only the third footballer to be given this title. Don't forget that only five years ago I was a substitute for a second division club [Le Mans] in France. Today, I'm a UN Ambassador."

"Before I became a rich footballer, I was on the other side of the fence for a very long time. I lived with my family in a tiny flat, but that didn't stop me from learning about hard work and respect. Those are the values I want to pass on to others. I believe you have to battle hard to get to the top. It's only through adversity that you improve."

Also, Ashley Cole has given an interview to Sky Sports, supporting and sometimes contrasting Drogba´s comments:

 

"The team spirit is good - I don’t think the players even think about what’s read. Half the players don’t believe in it anyway so its just up to us to keep playing and try to pick up the points on the field."

Has Mourinho spoken about the future with the players?

"I don't think he has done.  He’s there at the moment and his main aim is to keep winning games and hopefully we can help him do that. People probably thought wed be nine points behind but its still the six, so were happy.  It’s obviously brought other teams into it, with Arsenal and Liverpool getting the points”

"For the neutral it’s a great Premier League end. Four games ago and I think it was probably between Man U and us, but ourselves and Man U have had bad results and Arsenal and Liverpool have had good ones. I think it’s out of the four who’ll win it.

What about Chelsea’s recent loss of form?

 

"It’s a blip but we’ve missed key players and conceded silly goals. I’ve been at fault for a few."

Losing John Terry has been a blow?

 

"He’s training with the lads and looking really strong. He’s the heart and soul of the team and we need him back.

"But we can’t rush him back too early just in case he has any problems. We need him for the run-in, the important games, the Champions League and of course, the Carling Cup final.

"He needs to take his time, relax and get back for the important games."

  

 

In conclusion, encouraging stuff, although it does appear that the recent press frenetic persecution hasn’t gone un-noticed by the players. 

 

KEEP THE BLUE FLAG FLYING LADS – THIS COULD BE OUR FINEST HOUR!