Ancelotti hails Chelsea golden age

Published: 08 Nov 2009 - 09:27:00

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Carlo Ancelotti believes the time is right for him to get the most out of his experienced Chelsea stars, just like he did at AC Milan. Key players like Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Michael Ballack have all passed 30 but Ancelotti does not give any credence to suggestions they are past their best. Instead, he believes they are ready to offer the best football of their careers and, having led an ageing AC Milan to glory during his time at the San Siro, he is well-placed to judge. Indeed, it was under Ancelotti's guidance that Milan legend Paolo Maldini was able to carry on until 40 years of age. Now Ancelotti insists the current crop of Chelsea players can also defy the age barrier as the Blues look to extend their lead to five points with victory over Manchester United at Stamford Bridge. "John Terry is a young player and so is Lampard, said Ancelotti. "When one player is 30 years old, he is the centre of his career. Ten years ago he was an old player but now with the physical training, the age of 30 is the best moment of a player's career."