Source: SKY_Sports
Hiddink - Beware of the Drog
Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink has heaped praise on Didier Drogba following the striker's powerful performance against Juventus on Tuesday night.
The Ivorian deflated Juve's bid to dump Chelsea out of the UEFA Champions League when he netted an 83rd minute leveller at Stadio Delle Alpi, tying the game at 2-2 as the Blues ran out 3-2 aggregate winners.
Drogba's performances since Hiddink replaced Luiz Felipe Scolari, with whom he did not share the best relations, have been markedly improved.
His goal in Turin was his fourth in five games and Hiddink is confident that a fit and motivated Drogba can strike fear into any defence.
"He's very important, how he's showing his commitment and how he's always busy," said Hiddink.
"He doesn't give you, as a central defender, an easy night. When he scores, it's even better.
"He's doing very well. For the second goal, he came just ahead of his marker. That's a sign that he is sharp."
Drogba admitted Chelsea were caught between two planes of thought prior to Vincenzo Iaquinta's 19th minute opener for the home side.
"We didn't really know what to do, if we should attack or not, so we
played counter-attacking football," Drogba explained. "When they scored, we decided to play our game so I think it was a good thing they scored.
"You always want to start out to win the game, but at some point it was difficult to take a decision and I think the goal really helped us."
Hiddink also reserved special praise for Michael Essien, who excelled and scored on making his first start since being sidelined by knee ligament damage on international duty last September.
"He is fit, although not game-fit for 90 minutes at this high-paced level," said Hiddink. "But we chose to bring him and play him.
"His contribution to the team was huge, not just with his goal.
"His fuel was out of his tank after an hour. Belletti, though, is a very clever player and provided a very good assist.
"It is good to see Essien back and, by playing these games, he's getting the practice to play a whole 90 minutes."
The Ghana international was happy to play his part as the Blues progressed and has already set his sights on the next round.
Essien told Sky Sports News: "It was a great night. We came here to play and win. We had a draw so I think it is a very good step for us. We are looking forward to the quarter-finals.
"All our goals were very important. I scored one and the team got two so it is good for us."
