Tuesday Dec 05 2006 10:46
Chelsea defender Wayne Bridge hopes to win his first-team spot at Stamford Bridge back from Ashley Cole and does not think he will always be number two to the former
Arsenal left-back.
Bridge penned a new contract with the Blues last week and insists he has only opted to remain with the club because he thinks he is good enough to be a first-team regular.
The former Southampton star, who has not started a Premiership game for over a month, told the club's official website: "It was difficult when Ashley turned up. He's a great player but I see it as an even affair.
"They've given me the chance to sign a new contract and hopefully I'll get more opportunities to play and it'll be an even fight for the place.
"I spoke to Jose before Ashley signed. The gaffer always told me he was going to bring in a left-back and Ashley always looked like being the first choice.
"Jose told me it would be an even affair so I was happy to sign a new deal.
"I hope he sticks to that but I'm getting chances to play. He seems happy with me but if anyone takes a dip in form they're not going to play.
"Ashley is one of the best in the world but I don't see myself just sitting behind him. I don't see myself as second choice, I see it as an even affair."
Have your say on this article