There has never been an issue, in the case of Didier Drogba, with ability. The big problem for the Chelsea centre forward has always been that of application; you never know from one game to the next what side of his character will take to the pitch: pantomime villain or world beater?
Far too often the big Ivorian’s histrionics have darkened a Premiership pitch; hurling himself to the ground, rolling in apparent agony, arms flailing, pleading for the referee to right these wrongs put upon him with a wide-eyed look of perceived injustice.
The pinnacle of his bad behaviour, last season’s Chelsea- Barcelona semi final at the Bridge, was, according to Drogba, the turning point.
Chastised by his son afterwards for haranguing the referee then swearing in front of watching millions, an embarrassed Drogba finally understood the need to be a role model, apparently, and promised to turn over a new leaf.
His performances this season have been immense. Who can tell whether it’s a sympathetic arm round the shoulder from new boss Carlo Ancelotti or the midfield diamond tactics that has subsequently seen Drogba partnered up front rather than plough a lone furrow, but so far we have witnessed everything that is good about Didier Drogba. And when he is good, he is unplayable.
The power, commitment and clinical precision in which he has sometimes single-handedly taken apart opposition defences has been essential to Chelsea’s league aspirations in a campaign where, so far, the ever-reliable Frank Lampard’s contribution has been quiet in comparison to previous seasons. Drogba’s goals, assists and all-round performances make him my Forward of the Season so far.
Honourable mentions must go to both Jermain Defoe and Wayne Rooney for their performances in the first half of the season. Defoe has really stepped up his attacking potency; fourteen goals and two assists to date have shown a consistency previously lacking, his goals not only spearheading Spurs’ push for a top four finish but keeping him in the limelight in a World Cup year where striking positions are up for grabs.
With Ronaldo gone and Berbatov offering little form, Rooney has really come of age this season. As Fergie recently admitted, for United to push on, it’s essential their number 10 stays injury-free. Time and again, he has lifted the champions when hopes have looked bleak, and in a year where many of his team mates have failed to inspire, it’s a testament to his performances that United are still well in contention for this year’s crown.