MARCEL DESAILLY has warned Chelsea: Nicolas Anelka will never replace Didier Drogba.

The Blues completed a £15million swoop for Anelka in time for the Frenchman to cover Drogba's absence during the African Nations Cup.

But while Desailly believes the ex-Bolton striker will do a good job for Avram Grant's side, he insists the FA Cup holders would be mad to let Drogba leave in the summer.

The Chelsea legend said: "Anelka has huge potential but Drogba is Drogba.

"He will be there competing with Andriy Shevchenko and the other strikers but you cannot replace Drogba because he is the best.

HELLO ... Drogba and Anelka

HELLO ... Drogba and Anelka

"I don't know if Anelka can be the real first choice for Chelsea all the time."

Drogba, 29, was widely expected to quit Stamford Bridge as soon as possible after Jose Mourinho was sacked in September.

But the Ivory Coast international has recaptured his best form under Grant's management.

He has continued to lead Chelsea's line on his own and Desailly fears Anelka will never get the chance to partner his new team-mate.

The World Cup winner added: "It will be hard for them to play together.

"Anelka doesn't really like to stay up front and he moves around a lot.

"Drogba goes right and left and it will need a lot of work for them to form a partnership."

http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sp ... 678129.ece

Yes, it would be unfortunate to see him go, but I think the point is somewhat moot:

1. Drogba only really started scoring in buckets like 2 seasons ago. The previous 2 he was often barren. We scored before him and will afterward

2. If Anelka is the kind of striker to move alot and not be static, that is actually more what we need. If you recall, Drogba was totally ineffective when he just remained up front, waiting for the longball to be cast to him. Only when he started plugging back, holding up the ball, and taking a much more advanced role in the offense did he start scoring for fun

The goals will come with or without Didier

If a player really wants to go, it is best to let him go. NO-ONE is bigger than the club or irreplaceable.

If he goes we just say so long and thanks for all the fish!