Daniel Sturridge Can Fill Drogba’s Boots At Chelsea - Carlo Ancelotti

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti has backed Daniel Sturridge to fill the gap left in the Blues’ attack by Didier Drogba’s departure for the African Cup of Nations in January.

Drogba was in impressive form again on Monday, scoring as the west Londoners overcame a goal deficit at Fulham to win 2-1.

With Salomon Kalou also going to the African Cup of Nations and Nicolas Anelka currently injured, Ancelotti’s attacking options look a little threadbare.

But the Italian is backing Sturridge, the summer arrival from Manchester City, to show the maturity and ability required to lead the Chelsea line, although he may also tweak his tactics a little.

"He has scored 19 goals, but without Didier this year we did very well; we won in the Champions League without him and we can do the same in the Premiership," Ancelotti said, according to Sky Sports News. "I think in some matches we can change the system, we can use the wing in some matches if there is not space in midfield sometimes.

"Sturridge can play, it depends on the matches."

Meanwhile, Inter coach and former Blues boss Jose Mourinho was at yesterday’s game at Stamford Bridge. Ancelotti did not speak to his old sparring partner from his days in Serie A.

"I know he watched the game, but I didn’t speak with him," added the former AC Milan coach.

"I think Chelsea showed very good things, but also not so good."

Chelsea will play Inter over two legs in the first knock-out round of the Champions League in February and March.