The Anelka/Drogba partnership looks to have the green light as Avram Grant backed the pairing for greatness, despite disappointment in yesterday’s Carling Cup Final – a game in which Anelka looked isolated and ineffective deployed on the left of a front three.

“I think it will be a good combination”, proclaimed Grant whilst defending the decision to position Anelka out on the left. “We wanted to play Anelka on the side because he’s a creative player and quick. That’s what we wanted from him.”

That might be what he wanted but that’s not how it turned out and Anelka is unlikely to be happy with his contribution and role in the game. Despite this, Grant has indicated that there was little doubt that the pairing has potential.

“They can play together, no question. You can’t pick players like them and say it’s a gamble.”

But can Anelka contribute goals from a wider role? It certainly seems unlikely that he’ll be able to establish and maintain an output that will have many fantasy managers turning to the Frenchman. Meanwhile, Anelka’s inclusion will presumably see Joe Cole, Kalou and Malouda frozen out of the left attacking role. Surely that will mean severe rotation for Anelka and perhaps Drogba too? It certainly appears that Grant’s resources are so rich, there is no source of points in his lineup that appears safe from rest and rotation. With that in mind, it will be a brave fantasy manager who gambles on Anelka, Drogba or indeed any attacking Chelsea player, in the coming weeks.