Chelsea’s squad is so packed with talent you may claim it’s hard to find the players that make the team work. In this article we take a look at five Chelsea players who seem to hold an inordinate amount of influence on how the team performs.
1. JOHN TERRY (England, Central defender)
Terry is captain of club and country and he sets the benchmark which the other Chelsea players adhere to. A tough, uncompromising 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, you could not find a better player to captain your club and country.
2. ASHLEY COLE (England, Left back)
Every time he lines up against the Gunners he may be booed openly by Arsenal fans, despite the criticism Ashley Cole is still considered by many to be the best left back in the world. At times he may struggle for confidence and form, 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. He is known for keeping players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi quiet in games. That’s no fluke, only a world class left back can pull it off.
3. MIKAEL ESSIEN (Ghana, Central midfielder)
Last seasons injury made all Chelsea fans realise how important a role Mikael Essien played, even in a midfield that boasts so many outstanding, world class players. Essien helps balance the midfield. His energy, work rate and defensive skills are first class, but he is also a technically gifted soccer player of great intelligence. With a powerful shot from a distance and the ability to go forward at the right time making him an asset to the team. His role within the team defiantly makes the 24.4 million pounds it cost to transfer him seem like a bargin.
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 shown a great return to form under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti and as a result his goal tally has been increasing dramatically. His accurate shooting from distance, willingness to join in with attacks and link play with Chelsea’s wide players and strikers are a vital source of attacking strength for the team.
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 Chelsea soccer jersey makes all goalkeepers fear the upcoming game. He may be known for his ability to fall over during tackles and arguing with officials and opposing players but no goalkeeper wants him with the ball when he’s playing well. An excellent sense of presence coupled with prestigious goal scoring skill make him a must have for the team. His skill may give Chelsea what they need to end Manchester United’s recent dominance of the Premier League.
Five of the best soccer players in the world contributing to one of the best teams.
