Wilkins praise for resilient Blues

03 October 2010 19:30
Assistant boss Ray Wilkins hailed Chelsea's resilience as the Blues overpowered Arsenal to earn themselves a four-point lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League. Didier Drogba's 13th goal in 11 starts against the Gunners coupled with a sensational 30-yard free-kick from defender Alex, put Chelsea in a strong position going into the international break. Chelsea responded superbly after a week when their preparations were affected by the death of coach Carlo Ancelotti's father. "It's been an extremely difficult week but Carlo would like to thank everybody who has sent their best wishes, especially the League Managers Association," said Wilkins. "He also got a very nice very text from Sir Alex Ferguson and he wanted me to say that. "The team prepared itself very well because it has been very difficult for them. The first day after his father died was a little bit lack-lustre but then for the last two days they trained exceptionally well. "They knew what was in front of them with the Arsenal. They are a very good side indeed. For us to beat them is always a delight, it is not always very pleasant to look at but it was effective and I thought the lads were terrific."

Source: PA