Carlo hopeful of CL success

14 September 2009 07:59
Carlo Ancelotti believes Chelsea are in a strong position to finally get their hands on the UEFA Champions League trophy. Chelsea have endured several near misses in Europe's elite competition in recent seasons and came closest to lifting the title in 2008 when they lost to Manchester United in a penalty shoot-out. Ancelotti took charge at Stamford Bridge in the summer, with many claiming his success in Europe with AC Milan was the key factor behind owner Roman Abramovich's decision to appoint the Italian. Last season's beaten semi-finalists start the new campaign at home to Porto on Tuesday and Ancelotti is eager to enjoy success in the competition. "Chelsea have been in the semi-finals most in the last six years," said Ancelotti. "They haven't won it, but they have come very close. Two years ago, they were one penalty away from winning it. "Now the conditions are right for us to try again." Meanwhile, Ancelotti is not losing any sleep over his failed attempt to bring Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo with him to West London. He said: "We have players to fulfil that role. We've tried John Obi Mikel, Michael Essien and Deco. "Pirlo can't play like Mikel, and Mikel can't play like Pirlo."

Source: SKY_Sports