Fan Focus - Victoria Shelley!

Your name?

Victoria Shelley

Your age?

Twenty-something

How many years you have followed Chelsea?

I grew up in a Blue household, so all my life really. I guess the point where I became a proper supporter was when I went to my first game with my Dad in 1993.

Whats the best part about being a Chelsea Fan?

Being part of the Blue family – the true supporters stick together through thick and thin.

Whats your match day routine?

My Home Game routine: Get on the train about 9am; Breakfast on train of flapjack and 2/3 cans of Stella / Fosters (whatever is on special offer in One-Stop); Get to Fulham Broadway and go see ‘Urry Up Dave and Marco; Get some Chelsea toast in the greasy spoon down North End Road (if hungry); Go for beer wherever my posse are; ALWAYS end up in the So just before the game - sing, jump about and drink more beer; Watch Chelsea win their match in the Bridge; Head back to the So and drink more beer; Eat chicken burger and chips in TGI Fridays; Do One to Clapham Junction; Sod-off home on the train.

Do you have any Superstitions?

No, I lived at No. 13 for 20 years of my life and never came to any harm!

THE GAMES:

Whats your favourite game ever?
Probably the Champs League last season against Liverpool 4-4 at home! I was blown away!

Whats the best game you have ever been to?
So many…. FA Cup Final 1997 is up there with my favourites

Whats the best atmosphere you've witnessed?

When we beat Manchester United 3-0 and went on to become back to back Premiership champions (2006)

Whats the worse atmosphere?
Pretty much any home game when you have no other option but to sit in the East Stand.

Whats your favourite away ground and why?
Nou Camp – don’t need to say why, that should be obvious!!!

Where do you sit at Chelsea?
Wherever I can get a seat.

If you could sit anywhere else in the ground where would it be?
Next to Roman – I’d like to see whether his facial expression ever changes during the course of a game.

THE PLAYERS:

Who is your favourite player?

From the current squad, JT

Who is your least favourite player?

Hard to say, they all have their good and bad days. The one who frustrates me the most is Malouda.

Name you top 3 all-time players

Of my era, JT, Zola, Jimmy Floyd, Denny Wise, Desailly… sorry, did you say three???

Name your top 3 worst ever players

Of my era, Andy Dow, Jody Morris, Shevchenko

Who's the top 5 signings Chelsea ever made?

Frank Lampard, Joe Cole, Marcel Desailly, Franco Zola, Arjen Robben

Who's the top 5 worst Signings ever?

Dow, Bosnich, Jokanovic, Shevchenko, Deco,

If you could, who would you sign that is yet to play for Chelsea?

Lionel Messi.

Who would you re-sign if you could?

Arjen Robben

Player to watch this season?
I will be taking a keen interest in Zhirkov

MOMENT:

Name your favourite Chelsea Moment ever (it could be anything to do with Chelsea)
Other than some of the amazing games I’ve attended…. I did a merchandise photoshoot in the stadium for the Club catalogue, and also got wasted with the First Team at the Chelsea Players Christmas party in 2005! I’ve been very lucky and lived my dreams!

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World Cup Competition

Welcome to the first ever competition run on my website.

As you know, the FIFA World Cup is next year in South Africa and Sony Ericsson is one of the main sponsors of this epic football event. Sony have given one of you lot a chance to win a FIFA branded SE W995 handset worth £500 (shown in the header photo above or click the link for more details about the phone ). All you have to do is answer the following question:

Who was the last english Chelsea player to score in the World Cup Finals?.

To answer the question click here and remember to title your email "World Cup 2010 competition".

The competition will run until August the 23rd 2009. All correct entries will be put into a hat and the winner will be drawn on 24th August 2009. If you are the lucky winner you will be contacted by me and you will receive the brand new Sony Ericsson phone!.

Background to the customer promotion:

Sony Ericsson are official sponsors of the FIFA World Cup 2010™ in South Africa. To support this sponsorship, Sony Ericsson are launching a fantastic promotion.

The ‘Golden Ticket’ promotion will run from 1 August – 30 September. If you are the lucky winner of the handset, all you have to do , is enter your details at www.WinTheTickets.co.uk, including the IMEI number and you’re in the draw!

The prizes for the customers are:

Grand Prize: 1 x 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Golden Ticket
The golden ticket entitles the winner to a pair of tickets to every game their country plays – including the final. This once in a lifetime prize includes flights and 4-star accommodation are included.

Weekly Prizes: 2 x pairs of tickets to the 2010 FIFA World Cup™
Winners will see the drama unfold. Each week we’re giving away two pairs of tickets to a 2010 FIFA World Cup™ match. Flights and three nights in 4-star accommodation are included.

Daily Prizes:1 x Sony BRAVIA TV
Every day a stylish 40-inch Sony BRAVIA TV will be won so fans can follow all the action live for edge of the sofa viewing


Good luck everyone and remember to enter via the link above and you have until August 23rd to answer.


Please note the competition is run by an external company. The winner will be contacted by me and details forwarded to the external company who will send the winner the handset.

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Franco Di Santo loan to Blackburn?

Rumours are getting stronger that Franco Di Santo will be going out on loan this season to gain more experience of Premier League football with Blackburn his most likely destination. Sam Allerdyce needs to bolster his forward line since the departure of Santa Cruz and Di Santo would be ideal.

Chelsea have already loaned out one of our exciting prospects this season and Di Santo is another that looks as though he would be allowed to leave on loan in order to continue his development.

Di Santo is a similar player and a natural goal scorer. He reminds me of Hernan Crespo with his movement. He is always looking to make runs and give the midfield options to play him in down the channels or through balls and his goal scoring record since he joined Chelsea at all levels is second to none.

With the likes of Andriy Shevchenko and Claudio Pizzaro back from their loan's last season the competition for places in the starting eleven is fierce and will push Di Santo down the pecking order.

For me, this will be a good move for him and for Chelsea. It will give him important experience playing in the Premier League and will enhance his maturity as a footballer and will benefit him and us in the season's to come.

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Chelsea fail with Pirlo bid??

Its been reported that AC Milan has turned down a bid from Chelsea of £12.5m for Andrea Pirlo plus Claudio Pizzaro. AC Milan have apparently said that Pirlo is worth £35m.

Listen, I know Ancelotti knows him well and he played for him for a number of years but for me, we need to put the cheque book away and look at bolstering our squad somewhere else rather than our midfield.

It looks as though Deco will stay, we have enormous strength in depth in that area and if Ancelotti continues to play with the 4-diamond-2 formation then places are going to limted anyway.

Come on chaps, let's look elsewhere for younger players as I have said before this one is not for me! What do the rest of you think?

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John Terry talks about Roman Abramovich

John Terry spoke to the press further after the final game of the tour in the USA and has given more of an insight into his conversations with the owner Roman Abramovich. He said:

"I'm very flattered that Man City tried to sign me, When you hear that as a player and you get a phone call from the owner saying it doesn't matter what money they offer, he doesn't want to sell me. That's unbelievable. To sit and listen to this coming from the owner, and hear him say: 'You're the heartbeat of the team, you've been here for many years and I want you to stay', it's fantastic.

It is fantastic to hear that. I think we want to hear that. We love what he has done at the football club. He has made massive changes. It is strange actually because never before have myself and Frank and people like Didier had that communication with him. It's hard sometimes because people think me and other key players in the team are going in demanding this and this, but when you've got an owner coming in after games demanding to know why we didn't play well and why we didn't score two or three goals or why this happened or that happened, you can sit down and talk a bit.

Listen, he is a very successful businessman and makes all the final decisions. He likes to have the opinion of the players. We are the ones living and breathing the football life and if he can make a really small improvement for us on or off the pitch he tries to do it. And he wants to know the feedback from the lads, what is working and not working. It's great because he understands football. He watches so many games and understands the game very well and he's put an awful lot in. He wants to know why and how we can improve all the time. I think it's great we can have that relationship with him.

When I go in I don't go in thinking I'm all important. I just think as captain I have been here an awful long time and I have seen many changes. I think from a player and a fans' point of view at times you want to be reassured where the club is aiming to be. As soon as we spoke there was never an issue. From a players' point of view collectively we have had a great pre-season and it is great to hear about the ambition of Roman."

John Terry then went onto speak further about talks with the club about their plans to bring in players and tie down key players on new deals:

"Chelsea have assured me they have made big and substantial offers for two or three players and it just wasn't enough," Terry said. "We weren't prepared to go that step forward. It is obviously a very difficult market. We thought players maybe would be going on the cheap because of the circumstances worldwide financially, but it doesn't seem to be the case.

There have been players in the side – Ashley [Cole], Didier – Flo's [Florent Malouda] just signed a new deal as well. He was really good towards the end of last season. I just wanted to make sure that these people would be staying," Terry added. "I've not come in and sat down with Peter [Kenyon, chief executive] or Roman to get a new contract. I've still got three years left on my deal and I've said from day one to Peter and anyone who'll listen that this isn't about a new contract for me. It's never been about a new deal for me. I've got three years left. If the club comes to me in the next few months, obviously I'll sit down with them and talk. It's as simple as that."

So let's hope that after reading this interview any Chelsea fans (and there still are those people out there) that ever doubted John Terry's committment to Chelsea (as I posted yesterday) should now be in the same position and mind set as the rest of us, that he is Chelsea and it was never about leaving Chelsea or the money.

For me what is also great in this interview is the detail he speaks about Roman Abramovich and let's face it for a time last season we all were wondering about his involvement in the club. He used to miss games during Scolari's reign as it was always made a point of by the TV camera's at the ground for the world to see his seat empty and private box curtains drawn. But, this interview and also the footage that we all saw last season when he made the decision to get rid of Scolari where he is back at the training ground shows he is 100% committed to Chelsea and to our future which can only be good for Chelsea.

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John Terry - Never about a new contract

John Terry has given more insight to the talks between himself, the owner Roman Abramovich and the Chelsea board and has stated the reason for his silence in the official statement the club released yesterday, but has added to an interview with Skysports News that it was never about a new contract. He said he has 3 more years left on his contract and it was never about the money side of things at all.

For all Chelsea fans its such a relief that he is staying at the bridge but what makes it more special is John Terry's loyalty to Chelsea Football Club and its fans. Yes we all know (and he confirmed himself) that Manchester City put in a bid for him and we have all read and heard the stories of the amount of money they were going to put on the table. Its great to know that this never came into the equation.

Its simply down to John Terry as captain of the club seeking reassurances from Chelsea of their intentions with current key players, the possibility of bringing in some big players and of course the intentions of the new manager. This is fantastic to hear and I really hope that these people that have set up groups of Facebook and have written about him selling out or using the bid as leverage for a new deal, that question his dignity and loyalty in every way are sitting there reading the papers this morning with egg on their face.

Did you really ever think that he would leave and he would sell out? Honestly?. Every single die hard Chelsea fan was more than likely 99% certain that he would stay as he has pledged his loyalty to the club time and time again with just that 1% slight doubt because of the money.

They call him "Mr Chelsea" in certain quarters at the club and you can see the respect he has from all the players and the influence he has at the club. So why on earth would you people see him as being a sell-out?

Like I have said in previous posts all we wanted him to do was come out alot earlier and put these stories to bed but after reading his statement and listening to his interview on Chelsea TV and post match last night on Skysports News you can now understand that this was all within their own control. They didn't want to be influenced by things outside of the club and at the end of the day, even though we wanted it alot earlier, we have to respect that and looking back have done the right thing.

I am sure no doubt these "so-called" supporters will be there or watching around the world singing John Terry's name come the beginning of the season. Its just a shame that these people ever questioned his loyalty in the first place.

Just remember, John Terry his CHELSEA!

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Chelsea 2-0 Club America

Chelsea last night beat Club America 2-0 to win the World Football Challenge with goals from Franco Di Santo and Florent Malouda.

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John Terry statement! At last!

John Terry has released the following statement:

'There has been a lot of speculation recently about my future and I want to clear this up once and for all. I am totally committed to Chelsea and always have been. Chelsea have also made it clear to me consistently that there was never any intention to accept any kind of offer.

'When you are linked with any club, or with a manager who I have huge respect for, it will always make headlines but me leaving Chelsea was never a possibility.

'I know there has been comment that I should have made a statement earlier. However, throughout this period there have been numerous discussions between myself, the owner and the Chelsea Board and we all agreed that the timing of any statement would suit everyone involved in those talks, not any outside influences or agendas.

'What is clear to me following those discussions is that Chelsea's ambition remains as high as ever.This has been further proved by the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti. I am certain that he will take this club on to the next level.

'Another important factor was knowing that Chelsea would be securing key current players for the long term. The strengthening of the squad around this core is crucial to pushing us onto greater success.

'I am as committed as ever to helping drive Chelsea forward and I will be proud to lead the team for as long as I can.'

This is the best news as far as i am concerned and more important than any signing in World Football. You can forget the Ronaldo's and Kaka's in this world, this IS the main one for Chelsea and all us fans. This is great great news and we can now focus on our season.

GREAT NEWS and a great day for all Chelsea fans! I know you are all expecting pages and pages of stuff from me on this news, but to be fair JT has said it all and not much else to say apart from what I have already said.

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Chelsea 2-1 AC Milan

Chelsea continued their pre season tour of America and beat AC Milan 2-1 in the early hours of the morning this morning with a wonder goal from Didier Drogba and Yuri Zhirkov's first for Chelsea!

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New Chelsea Fancast

Subject: Chelsea Go Hollywood! – The Chelsea Football FanCast 80

Having travelled out to Los Angeles to join the American Blues watching Chelsea take on Inter Milan, Chidge is joined by some very special guests in a ‘Hollywood’ special Chelsea FanCast from the Fox and Hounds pub in LA.

Filling the legendary boots of Martin, Chel Tel et al we’ve got Michael Roban, the Chelsea FanCast’s official LA correspondent, the legendary ex-pat Chelsea fan Steven Cohen, the man behind the most listened to football podcast in the States – World Soccer Daily - and a man who hates Scousers even more than Chidge and the boys! And last, but by no means least, we have Paul Crowder former Adventures drummer, lifelong Chelsea fan and Shed boy since the seventies and the film director who made Once in a Lifetime – the extraordinary story of the New York Cosmos, Dogtown and Z Boys and the Story of the Who.

On the show the boys discuss the Chelsea v Inter Milan match at the amazing Rose Bowl stadium, and the all important Chelsea love in at Lucky Baldwins before the game. We also get the lowdown from Steven, Michael and Paul on what it’s like to be ex-pat Chelsea fans in LA, as well as our thoughts on the on-going John Terry saga.

Steven tells us how World Soccer Daily became the most successful football radio show in the States and Paul gives us a few impromptu Tales From The Shed and the influence his film about the New York Cosmos had on David Beckham coming over to LA Galaxy!!

“We’d like to show the world the way to Sing” is given a swerve after Chidge’s valiant but ultimately doomed effort to get the Rose Bowl equivalent of the Matthew Harding Upper to sing the Patrick Viera song during the game. But fear not, the boys still manage to get a few songs in and finally Chidge gives a big LA shout to those of you who have left posts on the Facebook site in “You’re on CFFC”.

The Chelsea Football FanCast: From Stamford Bridge to Los Angeles, we’ll keep the blue flag flying high!!

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John Terry to speak out?

So after the weeks and weeks of rumour and speculation its seems as though the word coming from inside Chelsea is that JT will be speaking out soon and making his intentions known about his future and word is he is staying at Chelsea. Obviously this is just rumour, and nothing has been confirmed until Terry speaks out but like i have mentioned before its about time.

But, let's think about it, has he done the right thing for himself in keeping quiet and speaking with the club and Roman first and sorting whatever needed to be sorted out there before he say anything in public. I was watching Chelsea TV tonight and Scott Minto made a really good point. He said what if JT had come out at the beginning of all this and said something and then had to backtrack!?

I know its been hard and frustrating for all of us reading all the stories and wanting JT to come out and put em to bed including me but today it seems that all the wait has been worthwhile. Reports are in press that Chelsea have offered parity with Frank Lampard on a reported 150,000 a week to persuade him to stay and this has been accepted.

To me, this is a complete no brain er. How many times do we have to say it JOHN TERRY IS CHELSEA. He is the heartbeat and lifeblood of our side. If you haven't seen it already, have a look at the video post from Chelsea's you tube channel which I posted on my blog yesterday of the youngsters at the club's initiation into the club led by and insisted by John Terry. All the staff and players from all levels were there to watch and get involved and create a very special atmosphere at the club led by John Terry again.

I can only see one reason as to why he would have to think about the move to City and that's just money and nothing else. The huge sums reported today (£1m per month) are ridiculous but obviously are something to consider.

But, football is the winner and of course JT's loyalty to the club. He has always said its in his heart and the club he wants to spend the rest of his career at and quite frankly for me this is the most important news for Chelsea in the last few years since Roman Abramovich took over the club.

You know, people have said and written that John Terry injury prone and that you will never get a full season out of him. He has back problems and we should take the money blah blah blah. But I can safely say to these people that I would never swap John Terry for any other defender in World Football as there is no one that can replace him.

Let's wait and see what happens in the next few days.

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Chelsea Bluewing

Chelsea Bluewing

Did you know that nestled in the grounds of the Chelsea Football Club Stadium at Stamford Bridge is a versatile new conference venue called Chelsea Bluewing.

The venue is a truly multi functional space which can be used to host conferences, events, parties and even weddings for those avid fans who want to be married in the ground of their no.1 team. The venue consists of 21 function rooms and 60 syndicate rooms and there is also an award winning restaurant Marco named after Marco Pierre White, who created the menu at the venue and adds a touch of glamour to any conference or party.

Some of the great facilities on offer are;

The Great Hall

This ultra modern conference venue will bring to life any conference and leave the attendees as inspired and informed as possible though use of its state of the art screens and media equipment. The venue can seat 900 delegates.

The Centenary Hall

Slightly smaller than The Great Hall, but by no means any less impressive or equipped to host outstanding conferences and events, this 400 seat venue will impress any delegates.

Special Occasions Venue

If you’re looking for an upmarket venue in a trendy part of London you won’t go wrong with the facilities at Chelsea Bluewing, which can be used for small gatherings, large parties or exclusive use. The venue has excellent transport links making it easy for your guests to find and access.

Why not host your wedding here if you want to a memorable occasion in the grounds that some of your foot balling heroes have played or just an outstanding venue to host a wedding you won’t go wrong by booking the Chelsea Bluewing wedding venue.

If you’re interested in booking a conference or event or just want a virtual tour of this lesser known section of Stamford Bridge then visit the Chelsea Bluewing site

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Youngsters Initiation before the USA

People this is great and is a great insight to behind closed doors at Chelsea with the bond between players and staff at all levels! Have a watch! You have to say thats impressive but don't go trying this at home!

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Mikel signs new 5 year deal

Today on the Chelsea Website its has been confirmed that Mikel has signed a new 5 year deal with the club. He said:

"It was easy to commit because I am happy here and when the opportunity came it was good to sign after speaking to the club.

My future with the new manager will be bright, and I think we have a good working relationship already. All the managers I have played for here have their own type of systems they want us to play , and whoever comes in will want to change little bits and pieces.

There is not much to change but they all bring in different views, and the new manager wants us to play in a certain formation which we need to get used to before the season starts. Its been hard work getting back to fitness but we all want to be sharp for the start of the new season, training is hard work but we have to do it.

The new formation doesn't make too much difference for me in defensive midfield, but perhaps its a little harder as i have to cover more ground for the team but i feel I am up to the task and i am sure i can do it"

For me, this is great news. He has been a really consistant performer for Chelsea and his positional sense has improved dramatically. He is very composed on the ball, there is still a slight tendancy to jump into a tackle and lose his head. If he can get that out of his game then he will continue to be a vital part of our side in years to come!

http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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Chelsea 2-0 Inter Milan

In the early hours of this morning Chelsea put on an impressive display to beat Inter Milan 2-0 with goals from Didier Drogba in the first half (keeper should of done better) and a Frank Lampard penalty after Cordoba handled a Sturridge cross.



Chelsea looked very sharp and their fitness looked impressive tonight. The tackles were flying in but Chelsea's passing was really sharp and they created most of the chances in the game. It was left to Zlatan Ibrahimovic's free kick as Inter's ONLY shot on target late on in the game.

So we move on to AC Milan in the early hours of Friday morning as we continue to build for the new season.

http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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Youngster turns his back on Chelsea

Its been reported that Frank Nouble is currently at West Ham undergoing a medical after turning down a professional contract at Chelsea. Its reported that the Hammers have offered him a 5-year deal to sign at Upton Park within the next 48 hours.

So reading this it again brings to the fore the question of will our youngsters ever get a chance or enough of a chance at Chelsea?. Jimmy Smith has signed for Leyton Orient on a free transfer after being loaned out more than enough times during his time at Chelsea. Ben Sahar was another one who was loaned out and has left so is the door for our youngsters slammed shut or is there still a glimmer of hope for the youngsters?.

You can argue about Sahar leaving that he wasn't really good enough with the strikeforce we have had at the club in the last 5 years. But this guy was a starter for the Israeli National team.

When Roman took over the club he invested in our youth infrastructure along with the training facilities for the first team but are we expecting too much too soon?

An argument will be that now we have established ourselves as one of the main stays in the top 4 of the English Premier League we need to maintain our squad strength and need to bring in world class players to maintain our position of challenging for honours year in year out so will they ever get enough of a chance?

The only player to of come through the clubs Academy is John Terry and you have to say at this stage there is only the likes of Michael Mancienne that looks anywhere near doing the same.

We need to focus on our Youth development as it will be so important in years to come if UEFA have their way with the ruling involving English players and restrictions on overseas players. You never know one day at Chelsea we may be in a position to do an Alex Ferguson where he sold off first teamers and brought the likes of Beckham, Neville, Butt, Scholes and Giggs to the fore and look what happened with them!

But at the end of the day its a difficult one for the manager and for the club. If the manager doesn't maintain the level of performance expected from the owner, boardroom and fans then they lose their job so it's going to have to be something special to take the plunge with the youngsters! Just hope that these players don't come back and bit us on the bum in the future!

http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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Malouda's new deal confirmed!

As previously posted on here, Florent Malouda has put pen to paper on his new three year deal and he told the Chelsea Website :

"We agreed during my holidays and i have signed now i've come back. I am really happy because it shows a mutual trust between the club and myself and for me, its just the beginning of the story.

The last six months especially i was feeling great, plus we won a trophy that was really important to me. I feel really good and you can see it on the pitch and i hope we get more trophies".

Malouda was then asked about our new manager. He said:

"I was really happy when i heard it was Carlo Ancelotti because i have a lot of respect for him and at my former club Lyon I played many times against Milan. For me its a really good choice and i believe in him.

This year he wants to try a new system with a diamond so i have to adapt myself and that is why we are training really hard to do what the manager wants. It is a different role for me but that is part of my game, i can play in many positions, and have played it a few times in Lyon when there were injuries and in the France national team i have played many times this position"

Let's hope that we hit the ground running this season and especially Malouda starts from where he left off last season!

P.s. An update for you all, we are still looking for his twin-brother who was prominent at the beginning of his Chelsea career but went missing the last six months!

http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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Ballack breaks toe and flies home

Unfortunately Michael Ballack has had to come back from our pre season tour of America with a Broken toe which is a blow to Michael. With Carlo Ancelotti taking the reigns and everyone starting from a clean sheet trying to impress the new manager its not exactly the right time to be missing out.

Obviously this will now set him back behind the rest of the squad with preparations for the new season but from a squad point of view we have enough bodies to cover no problem. With the African players getting back full swing into training its an opportunity for the likes of Mikel and Essien to get amongst it and get involved tonight possibly against Inter Milan.

Let's hope that tonight everyone gets a good run out, no injuries are picked up and we get a good result!

http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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Jose Mourinho next for Chelsea

So in the early hours of Wednesday morning (If you have Chelsea TV) you can see Chelsea take on our next pre-season opponent Inter Milan managed by the Chelsea legend Jose Mourinho. This is the first time that Chelsea have encountered Jose ever since he left Stamford Bridge and its a game eagerly anticipated by all of us.

Let's hope we get the win and continue to build towards the new season!

For all of you, here is a Video compiled by Carefreechris from http://www.carefreechris.com of Jose and a tribute to him. Enjoy! (Oh the memories!!)



http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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"I'm not sure what John Terry will do" - Lampard

Frank Lampard has spoken of the continous rumour and speculation about John Terry and I have to say its not made any of us feel any better or 100% confident he will stay now! He said:

"I don't know what he will do, I've been in John's position, but everyone at the club wants him to stay. I had an option to leave last summer, to go with a manager who I love, but it came at a time in my life that, maybe, just wasn't right.

But the situation made me think an awful lot. It wasn't an easy decision, either, and I don't think people should criticise John. The fact is you can never take away what he's done for Chelsea. He'll always be a legend. I hope and I'm confident that, whatever happens, he will continue to be considered a legend here.

People should respect his right to choose. When you're a successful player this kind of thing is going to happen and then you have to make a decision. John's a very honourable man and it doesn't come down to money and things like that. I know John. I know he'll be thinking about what's the right thing to do as a player and, in the longer term, for his career.

No one should doubt that John Terry wants to be successful. No one should doubt that John Terry is a winner. This is not just about the money and people shouldn't try to make it that black and white. It's understandable because it's Manchester City who have come in, but it's up to John what happens. All I can say is that I'm very proud each time I play with him and, as a club, you want to keep players like John Terry. It's as simple as that."

So I have kept asking time and time again like all of you, for JT to come out and speak and put the story to bed but at the minute he is remaining silent. That's his choice and like I have said before I will never question JT but seriously, the amount of rumour, the amount of reports and the fact that he must know how every single Chelsea fan is feeling, he has to come out and speak.

Come on John!. Put us out of our misery please as we had all this last summer with Frank. Please just put it all to bed once and for all and focus on our massive season ahead!

http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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Seattle 0-2 Chelsea

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Stoch loaned out for season!

Also today on the Chelsea website they have confirmed that Miroslav Stoch has joined Steve McClaren's FC Twente on loan until the end of the season. The statement reads:

"Miroslav Stoch the 19 year old winger who made his first team debut last season, will be joining FC Twente on loan until the end of the season. The move gives Stoch an opportunity to gain experience in the top division in The Netherlands. FC Twente are managed by former England coach Steve McClaren and finished runners up last season"

I personally believe this is a fantastic move for Stoch. There is no doubt his ability and talent and the fact that he will be playing for one of the top sides and also let's not forget, a Champions League side this season will be great experience and I believe he will come back even better.

Let's wish him well and hope it works out for him and for Chelsea in the long term.

http://chelseadaft.blogspot.com

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Joe Cole - He's here not there!

Today it was confirmed on the Chelsea Website that Joe Cole has missed the pre season tour of the USA due to injury. The statement reads:

"Joe Cole underwent minor surgery yesterday (Wednesday) to correct a small tear in his meniscus in his knee. In light of his previous surgery, excellent rehab and recent return to full training, this is only a minor setback and we expect Cole to return to full training in approximately one month. As a result, Cole has not joined the party for the tour of America"

That's again bad luck for Joe who you can imagine was itching to get back amongst it for so long watching from the sidelines last season. Here at Chelseadaft I would like to wish Joe Cole well, a speedy recovery and let's hope to get you back playing sooner rather than later! I guess you will just have to spend time with your wife eh? Gutted!

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Drogba / Bosingwa bans Cut by Uefa

Today Uefa announced that the bans handed to Didier Drogba & Jose Bosingwa after the Barcelona 2nd leg on 6th may have been cut by a game each based on each players appeals over the bans handed to them by UEFA after the game.

The statement reads:

"The UEFA Appeals Body has announced its verdicts, following appeals lodged by Chelsea FC striker Didier Drogba and defender José Bosingwa against sanctions imposed by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body last month, in the wake of incidents occurring at the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg between Chelsea and FC Barcelona in London on 6 May.

Under the UEFA Appeals Body's verdicts, Drogba will be suspended for five UEFA club competition matches – the last two of which will be deferred for a probationary period of three years – and has been fined €15,000. Bosingwa will be suspended for three UEFA club competition matches, the last of which is deferred for a probationary period of three years, and fined €10,000.

Drogba and Bosingwa faced charges of being in breach of the principles of sportsmanship by insulting the referee by making offensive comments. Drogba's suspension applies to the next three UEFA club competition matches for which the player would be eligible, while Bosingwa's ban applies to the next two UEFA club competition games for which the player would be eligible.

The €100,000 fine imposed against Chelsea by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body remains confirmed (as the club withdrew their appeal), for the improper conduct of their players and the throwing of missiles by their supporters at the match against Barcelona, which ended in a 1-1 draw".

We all know what happened and we all felt the same injustice. At least we have managed to get something out of the scandal that occured that night!!

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John Terry going nowhere! - Kenyon

Well I am delighted to report after my "rant" this morning that Peter Kenyon made Chelsea & John Terry's stance clear on this whole issue by stating the following:

"He's not available at any price. He's got a three-year contract. He's told us he doesn't want to go and we don't want him to go. End of story."

Ok so still JT hasn't come out and said anything publically BUT, this will do for the time being. Let's hope this one dies a death before we go away to the states on Thursday.

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ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! - John Terry

Forgive me but its rant time.

The whole John Terry situation is now getting out of hand. We have heard the fact that City tried to tempt JT last season and he reaffirmed his stand of seeing out his career at Chelsea. Then we hear this summer that City have had two supposed bids of £30 & £32 million rejected by Chelsea but Mark Hughes and this bloody story will not go away!

You have to say there is never smoke without fire and there have been reports that Wayne Bridge started of this whole situation when he signed for City by telling Mark Hughes that JT's head would turn if offered the money. Then we see in the paper JT and Mark Hughes together in Dubai, but that could mean anything.
So this morning, in the reports detailing the press conference held at City when they bought their 54th forward Mark Hughes again has come out and had publicly tapped up JT offering him and "new challenge" and "when you have been at a club for a long time its better to have a change".

So now its time to say to Mark Hughes & Man City to shut up as JT isn't going anywhere. Again I do have to point out like the rest of you that he STILL hasn't said anything publicly about his intentions. The club have refuted the claims and the transfer bids but we ALL want him to come out now and say "I'm Chelsea through and through and I am staying at Chelsea! That's all you have to do!

But why would JT want to sell out to City and leave us anyway?. I'm sure he is not in a position where he needs the money and I am sure some of you will say well if you are offered that amount of money then why wouldn't you be interested?.

I have to say, why would you want to leave a side that is always there or there abouts in the title race, always there or there abouts in the Champions League (five semi finals in six seasons) and are fighting for domestic honours most seasons in the FA Cup and League Cup?.

Don't forget this season is World Cup year so why would you want to go to a side ( I say side, no disrespect to Man City) that has all these players being bought for silly money and silly wages but won't be a team or a success because unlike Chelsea, we threw money at players that would come into the side and maintain our team spirit and ethic and not buying individuals who are good players.

So I asked you previously JT to come out and put this story to bed. Now after reading the written and online press this morning, I am pleading, like all Chelsea fans, for you to come out before you fly to the USA tomorrow and state that YOU ARE CHELSEA.

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Kenyon on his way?

The following report has appeared on the "Times Online" website this morning:

"Peter Kenyon is considering leaving Chelsea on a high after successfully renegotiating the club's shirt sponsorship deal with Samsung.

The club are expected to announce an extension to their existing five-year deal this week, which is believed to be an improvement on the present £11million-a-year package.

Kenyon, the chief executive, has been focusing on commercial work for some time as others at the club have come to the fore on the football side, and after concluding negotiations with the Korean electronics company he is weighing up whether it is the right time to move on. He is understood to have felt increasingly sidelined in recent months: he played little part in the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as manager last month, and was on holiday when Luiz Felipe Scolari was sacked in February.

Chelsea's promotion of Frank Arnesen to the new position of sporting director this week was another blow to Kenyon, because there is bound to be an overlap between their respective roles. The Dane was in charge of youth development and scouting, but will take greater responsibility for signing first-team players, an area previously headed by Kenyon.

The 55-year-old kept a low profile when Ancelotti was introduced to the media last week and is not expected to appear to promote the Samsung deal, another indication that he may be on his way out. Kenyon does not have another job to go to, but there have been persistent rumours linking him with a move to Manchester City and, given his wealth of experience with Manchester United, where he was also chief executive, and Chelsea he is unlikely to be short of offers.

Chelsea are adamant that Kenyon is staying and have no plans to dismiss him."

I have to say that it does seem that since Roman made the decision to sack Scolari and Kenyon was away at the time it does seem that Kenyon's influence at the club seems to be alot less than it was and I personally wouldn't be surprised if he jumped ship to the club up north with all the money!

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Ballack expecting title charge!

I have to say I was pleased with the quote that came from Michael Ballack recently. He said:

"It is our target every year to win the league and we are confident about winning the title," said Ballack, quoted in the London Evening Standard following his appearance at a Chelsea charity event, Right to Play, in Wentworth.

"I think we had a good season last year, but United have played at a really high level the last few years. They made it really difficult for us to win the League in 2007 and 2008, but we were really close behind and last season we also finished behind Liverpool, who had a strong season.

There are a few moments which decide every championship but we are confident it will be different next time. We have a very experienced squad." Ballack added: "We haven't added a lot of new players, so we don't need much time to get into our rhythm."

I think he has a point you know. We haven't lost anyone (at the moment) and we have made a great signing in Yuri Zhirkov. Added to that we have Sheva and Pizzaro back into the fold (albeit we do not know how long for) so we are looking very very strong for the coming season.

Let's hope the one or two issues that surround the club at the moment are sorted out and we can kick on in pre season and really hit the ground running come kick off on August 15th.

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First Ever Fan Focus - Dave Chidgey

ABOUT YOU:

Your name?
David ‘Chidge’ Chidgey

Your age?
43

How many years you have followed Chelsea?
Casually since 1976, Actively since 1986, Obsessively since 1996!

Whats the best part about being a Chelsea Fan?
The bond between Chelsea Fans built around ‘Glorious Unpredictability’, our somewhat unique sense of humour and the countless number of songs we have

Whats your match day routine?
Malt House Pub to meet my fellow Chelsea FanCast boys Mart, Big Phil, The Blues Brothers – Chris and Stu, Chel Tel, Paul and Ross. Burger washed down with plenty of Guinness, say hello to mates in the Malt House – a few sly fags in the garden, a few pints bought by fans of the show. Wander up to the CFCUK stall – quick gossip with Mark Worrall and Dave ‘Hurry up it’s only a pound’ Johnstone, final sing song in the So Bar, buy match day programme and then into Gate 17. Afterwards a pint or two in the Imperial or record the Chelsea FanCast in Putney!

Do you have any Superstitions?
Too many to mention probably, or remember!

THE GAMES:

Whats your favourite game ever?
The 4-2 cup win against Liverpool in 1996/7 – the dawning of a new era!

Whats the best game you have ever been to?
Tough to choose between the 4-2 v Barcelona or the 4-4 against Liverpool last season

Whats the best atmosphere you've witnessed?
Probably the 4-4 against Liverpool, but possibly the 2-1 loss against Barcelona when Del Horno got sent off.

Whats the worse atmosphere?
Hull last season – a mixture of apathy, resignation and animosity

Whats your favourite away ground and why?
Fulham – love taking the piss out of them, and let’s face it it’s nearly in Chelsea!

Where do you sit at Chelsea?
Gate 17 MHU

If you could sit anywhere else in the ground where would it be?
Matthew Harding Lower for the atmosphere but not the view!

THE PLAYERS:

Who is your favourite player?
Joe Cole of the current crop

Who is your least favourite player?
Deco
Name you top 3 all-time players
Zola, Vialli, Osgood

Name your top 3 worst ever players?
Jokanovic, Bogarde, Deco

Who's the top 5 signings Chelsea ever made?
Hoddle, Gullit, Zola, Vialli, Lampard

Who's the top 5 worst Signings ever?
Bogarde, Jokanovic, Joe Allen, Veron, Chris Sutton I
f you could, who would you sign that is yet to play for Chelsea?
Fernando Torres – probably the best striker in the world, even if he looks like a Ladyboy!

Who would you re-sign if you could?
Carlo Cudicini – should never have let him go

Player to watch this season?
Michael Mancienne

MOMENT:

Name your favourite Chelsea Moment ever (it could be anything to do with Chelsea)
Celebrating the 2005 title win at Bolton in the Fulham Road - what a night!!


Chidge (as mentioned above) records the Chelsea Fancast and you can listen/download it here

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Zlatan Ibrahimovic - Really?

So during the weekend just gone we have now been linked with a move for Zlatan Ibrahimovic of Inter Milan, the player Jose called the "Best in the world" well not for me i'm afraid. Since the story broke the papers have also stated that Manchester United have "an interest" in the player but Fergie said yesterday that there are "no more" signings. Zlatan's agent has also come out and said that he is going nowhere.

So is this another one we look to be missing out on or is this THE ONE star name that the club has said it wants to bring to the club to bolster the squad for this summer?.

Well like I said this guy isn't my cup of tea at all. He seems very much a lazy player who is in and out of games as his mood takes him. If he is up for it then he can be a great player, but if he isn't then he will drift out of games and will seem non-existant.

For me, we have a striker already like that at the club and don't need another one!

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Frank Arnesen statement

Chelsea Football Club released the following statement over the weekend:

"Chelsea Football Club is delighted to confirm that Frank Arnesen is to become sporting director with immediate effect. He will continue with his roles relating to the Reserves and Academy but will also now take on responsibilities relating to the co-ordination of first team activity and supporting the first team manager.

Frank will continue to report to the chief executive, Peter Kenyon. As Chelsea continues to grow rapidly, the board wanted increased senior support for the first team and new manager on a daily basis at Cobham to help assist the overall long-term football and business strategy of the club"

Frank has given his take on his new role on the Chelsea website here!

Congrats to Frank Arnesen.

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John Terry please put it to bed once and for all

Why has JT not come out and said anything still with all this media speculation going on. The fact of the matter is that he has not come out and said anything and as a result the press are having a field day once more when it comes to Chelsea.

All he needs to do is come out and say that he re-iterates what he has already said before time and time again and that's it, it will be put to bed.

So why hasn't he said anything yet? What is stopping him?

There has been reports over the weekend that he wants to speak to Man City, that he is unhappy with Chelsea's lack of transfer activity so far this summer and that he will find £200k a week to good to turn down, but for me this is all nonsense.

I believe that he just wants to clarify his position under Ancelotti and what the new manager expects from him and also maybe look at a pay rise but I simply can't see JT selling out for the money when he is everything that we all stand for as Chelsea fans.

With the players about to jet off abroad for the Pre Season tour let's hope that he comes out and makes a statement and City can go after someone else!

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New Chelsea Fancast

The Chelsea FanCast returns after an over due 3 week break, and the boys give a hearty welcome to new Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti on this weeks show. After Carlo’s comedy stand up performance in his first press conference, the FanCast boys best comedic efforts come in the form of some good old fashioned nob gags!

They discuss Ancelotti’s command of English, his standing as a future stand up comedian and what his targets should be next season – the Champions League, Premier League or both! The scandalous and horrific speculation about John Terry gets the boys thinking are players just in it for the money and why JT is irreplacable.

Talking of transfer speculation, Chidge gets twisted blood trying to get his head round all the potential ins and outs. Chelsea seem to have an eye on UEFA’s foreign player ruling by bringing in young English talent and not being taken in by the current over pricing in the market thanks to Real Madrid and Man City. The boys approve this policy and the efforts being taken to keep hold of what is a very strong squad. Chidge announces that he’ll be in Los Angeles to see Chelsea v Inter Milan, leading the singing no doubt and then doing a podcast on the following evening in a very British sounding pub – the Fox and Hounds!

The boys preview the US tour and welcome the boys in blue playing in front of the new and growing US fan base, although some good old fashioned pre-season fixtures in England wouldn’t go amiss!! In Dear Mart, questions on players similarities to Chewbacca and Han Solo are answered as well as how to become a Celery Freedom Fighter. In You’re on CFFC, we hear from Mike Keegan, Scott Melton and the podcast legend that is Kiri!! The Chelsea Football FanCast: Definitely not in it for the money!

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Pre Season for Chelsea FC starts today

So today is the day that ALL the players return to Cobham and start Pre Season training with Carlo Ancelotti today. Players have been in since the beginning of the week but for those involved in International games, they all return today.

So today Carlo Ancelotti starts work with the full squad for the first time and sets his vision of Chelsea and most importantly of all he gets to speak with John Terry about the constant speculation surrounding interest from Man City.

Let's hope that JT comes out and sets the record straight so we can all concentrate on Chelsea and the challenges that lie ahead this season.

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Yuri Zhirkov signs!

News tonight on the Chelsea Website is that Yuri Zhirkov has signed a three year contract at Chelsea.

He told the Chelsea Website :

"Any footballer would be happy to sign a contract with Chelsea, and at any time. I have been received very well here, and have been shown the base at Cobham training ground. Everything is Super!.

Of course its good when some players speak Russian. Even today Petr Cech translated some bits and pieces and I understand some words in English. Now I hope to learn English too!"

So he is our third signing of the summer and will provide stiff competition for places under the new manager!

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