Kicking for the finishing line

As he surveys his squad after their arrival back from midweek internationals and ahead of this afternoon's home fixture against Middlesbrough, Avram Grant is convinced his players are hitting their stride just as the most important competitions are decided.
Wins for Manchester United and Arsenal on Saturday have put pressure on the Blues to take all three points from today to keep title hopes realistic. Then on Monday the players fly to Istanbul for the start of the Champions League quarter-final.
The big names need to perform and Didier Drogba for one gave plenty of notice he is in goalscoring mood with his double strike in the successful turnaround against Arsenal last weekend.
'In Europe, Didier played very good in the group stage which was not easy for us and also in the league until he got injured and he couldn't play,' recalls Grant.
'During this time he left for the African Cup of Nations and he came back not so fit because he didn't train when he was injured and in African Cup they played in 40 degrees without any training.
'So he was back from Africa not so good and most of this was the physical side but there was also some effect on the mental side.
'But he trained very well' reassures the manager, 'and against Tottenham he was much better than before and against Arsenal he was very good - so I think he is in a very good shape at the right time.'
Rounds of international fixtures can be a worrying time for anyone in charge of a major team but Grant was encouraged by events on Wednesday night. Nicolas Anelka was one player who earned plaudits from plenty of observers after France's win over England.
'In all the games he played with us he played very good,' said Grant about his big signing.
'Nicolas is a team player. Sometimes people cannot see it but many times he has played, we scored four or six goals and since he came I am very happy with him.
'He is here a short time and sometimes a player that comes in January, it is not easy to join the team but he did it very well and I think he will be better also.
'Most of our players who went away with their countries played very good. Even players not in our squad last time like Florent Malouda.
'Andriy Shevchenko like always when he goes to Ukraine scores every two games. He is improving now. It is not an easy situation for him this season and we have only a few games to the end but I hope he will bring his contribution to the games.
'It is important for us that all the players are in the right shape at the right time and I think we are.'

Ex-Chelsea boss Mourinho denies Inter Milan talks

Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has denied he's held talks with Inter president Massimo Moratti in Milan.
Spokesman Eladio Parames was quoted as confirming the news: "It's true, Mourinho and (agent Jorge) Mendes were in Milan.
"They left Lisbon yesterday and in the afternoon met the Inter President. Where? I cannot confirm that detail, but there was a meeting and I can assure you it was very positive."
However, the former Chelsea boss has now come out to quash these increasingly strong rumours.
"I say categorically it is not true that I went to Milan, that I met Massimo Moratti," said Mourinho. "It is just false to say that I am on the point of signing a contract with Inter Milan."

Werder Bremen express interest in Chelsea's Pizarro

Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen have expressed an interest in re-signing their former striker Claudio Pizarro from Chelsea in the summer.
Pizarro joined the Blues last summer on a free transfer from Bayern Munich, but has struggled to make an impact.
Reports have linked the Peruvian striker with a return to the Bundesliga at the end of the season and a move back to Bremen.
The 29-year-old spent two years with Bremen, scoring 29 goals in 56 league games, before joining Bayern in 2001.
Bremen's sporting director Klaus Allofs has confirmed he wants to sign Pizarro, but is concerned about the cost of any deal.
"I consider Claudio an interesting player," Allofs said. "A player who will soon be 30 years is not too old for us.
"From a financial point of view it doesn't seem feasible, but I'm going to ask."

Cole: Chelsea in-form at right time

Joe Cole has said that he believes Chelsea have hit form at the right time to pip Manchester United and Arsenal to the Premier League title.
The Chelsea midfielder believes critics of Avram Grant's side were foolish to write The Blues off so early in the season, and he thinks the club are on their way to serving a large slice of humble pie to the detractors.
"We've hit form at the right time - we've got the boys back from Africa (Cup of Nations) and some injuries back, and we're back playing some great stuff again," Cole said.
"We've been reasonably consistent, we're in second place and five points off the leaders so if we keep going, anything can happen.
"We've always got belief. I'm ever the optimist - I believe we can do it. It's the old cliché; you have to take each game as it comes, and keep winning."
Cole continued: "We don't listen to critics too much. People who know the game know it would be silly to write anybody off in September or October, which we were.
"Anyone can beat anyone and it's the strongest league in the world at the moment, and a joy to play in. We don't feel we have anything to prove but we certainly want to win The Premier League, that's for sure."

Mourinho in Italy for Inter Milan talks

Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is in talks with Inter Milan, it has been revealed.
Mourinho travelled to Italy last night and reports suggest an agreement could be reached within hours.
Current Inter manager Roberto Mancini quit the club earlier this month only to reverse his decision the following day.
But the Serie A club's president Massimo Moratti is keen on Mourinho.
A senior source at Inter recently said: "Moratti is a great admirer of Mourinho who he sees as one of life's achievers - just like himself.
"The belief is that it will not take too long to reach an agreement with Mourinho to become the new coach of Inter."

Grant reveals Chelsea chasing flair players

Chelsea boss Avram Grant has revealed they're targeting 'flair' signings in the summer market.
Grant wants to start this summer by using a worldwide network of 52 scouts to deliver "the flair players" he believes will represent the next stage in the club's development.
"We already have a very, very good team at Chelsea," said Grant. "One that has a chance to win the championship and the Champions League this season".
"But we have to plan for the future as well and I want to add more flair to the team.
"I know Roman Abramovich will give us his full support if the right player becomes available. But if it is not possible to bring in a Messi or a Kaka, we will try to find the next one."

Chelsea boss Grant hints at Ballack words

Chelsea boss Avram Grant has hinted he confronted Michael Ballack during the week after his poor reaction to being substituted against Arsenal last weekend.
The Israeli said: "When you make a substitution sometimes the player has to suffer because you need to win the game. If we have something that we think is wrong we will deal with the situation inside the club."

Grant insists he can bring success to Chelsea

Despite his low profile, Avram Grant insists he can bring success to Chelsea.
Grant makes the valid point that Fabio Capello was promoted from the coaching staff when he took charge of AC Milan. Ditto Vicente Del Bosque at Real Madrid.
"It was the same when Milan appointed Arrigo Sacchi," Grant said, "No one could understand why Silvio Berlusconi wanted this guy from Parma. They said he would have to change now that he had better players. But Berlusconi said if he changed he didn't want him.
"I believe I can be as successful at Chelsea as they were at their clubs but I accept that the success I enjoyed in Israel counts for nothing here. I have not arrived, like Mourinho, as a Champions League winner.
"I have not had the success of Ferguson and Wenger. I have studied the best coaches' methods and the team is making progress. We are second in the Premier League. We are still in the Champions League."

Chelsea boss Grant: Terry must prove himself to Capello

Chelsea boss Avram Grant says John Terry needs to prove his quality all over again if he wants to win back the England captaincy.
Grant said: "In football, even if you've proved yourself in the past as a captain, you always need to prove yourself again and again.
"John's a strong character. He knows there's a new coach who wants to test some things, including the position of the captain.
"I was a national coach and didn't like other people telling me what to do, so I won't be telling Fabio (Capello) what to do.
"John's a mature guy. He wants to be captain but he understands the decision of the manager - he respects it.
"There is a lot of time before the World Cup qualification games. I understand Fabio's decision, what he is doing.
"For me, John Terry should be captain. But he's the manager. You need to respect that decision."

Chelsea boss Grant won't write off Arsenal

Avram Grant still believes Arsenal remain a title threat despite Chelsea's recent 2-1 victory over the Gunners at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea face Middlesbrough at home on Sunday hoping to cement their position behind leaders Manchester United at the top of the table - but Grant is not expecting an easy ride with just seven games remaining.
Grant is remaining cautious as Chelsea prepare for the title run-in.
"We might drop points on the way," said Grant. "We need to go game by game.
"Middlesbrough drew at Arsenal last time, so we need to do our job. It won't be easy. But I don't think Arsenal are out of the race.
"You need to keep your players focused all the time, especially now when you're coming up to the last games. We've done a good job up to now.
"We were many points behind Arsenal and now we're above them. But they're still in the race. That's my opinion. Not even one team will take all the points."

Chelsea's Pizarro banned by Peru for 18 months

Chelsea striker Claudio Pizarro is one of four Peru players who have been banned from the national team for 18 months.
Pizarro, PSV Eindhoven's Jefferson Farfan, Almeria defender Santiago Acasiete and Steaua Bucharest forward Andres Mendoza have also each been handed a £10,000 fine in addition to the suspension after they held a party following the 1-1 draw against Brazil in a World Cup qualifier in November.
The Peruvian FA justice committee ruled the ban could start from the time of the offence, meaning the players can return to represent their country in May 2009.

Chelsea furious over fixture schedule

Chelsea have accused the football authorities of handing their title rivals an advantage after it was decided to move their fixture with Everton forward by two days.
Chelsea issued a statement insisting the decision, taken for television purposes, undermines the integrity of the competition.
Chelsea's statement read: "Chelsea is extremely disappointed with the announcement today regarding the Everton fixture.
"We believe the decision to hold the match on Thursday April 17 undermines the sporting integrity of the competition by giving our rivals for the Premier League title an unnecessary competitive advantage at a critical time of the season, with more recovery time from their previous match and preparation time for their next fixture when we have to play two games during the same period.
"Secondly there has been no consideration given to our fans who will be presented with serious travel, work and other issues.
"And lastly, the decision sets a dangerous precedent in changing match days still further when fixture congestion does not exist and when a sensible solution regarding other television matches that weekend was suggested.
"Football has benefited greatly from the backing of television and Chelsea as much as anyone else. However this decision is one step too far and we reserve all rights on our position.''

Malaysian FA confident Chelsea boss Grant will be welcome

The Malaysian FA is confident Chelsea boss Avram Grant will be able to gain entry to the country during the club's Asian tour this summer.
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon was in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday to announce the Blues would play a Malaysian Selection side on July 29 as part of their Far East summer programme.
Questions however have since been raised about whether Grant and defender Tal Ben Haim would be permitted to enter Malaysia as the country has no diplomatic ties with Israel.
But FAM deputy president Khairy Jamaluddin has downplayed those fears, citing the precedent set by the Israeli national cricket team's participation in the 1997 ICC Trophy.
"(Tour organisers) Pro Events has been advised to look into this matter and seek the necessary clearance," said Khairy.
"The FAM have agreed to support and sanction this tournament. After all precedents have been set before."

Chelsea owner Abramovich won't give up on Xavi

Chelsea are planning a fresh bid for Barcelona midfield schemer Xavi.
Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich hasn't lost his enthusiasm for Xavi after having an offer for the midfielder turned down almost two years ago.
Xavi is contracted to Barca until 2010 and Chelsea are willing to offer the Spain international a lucrative four-year deal to come to Stamford Bridge in the summer.
The midfielder's current buyout clause is set at £100 million.

Modric wants Chelsea move

Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Luka Modric is desperate to join Chelsea in the summer.
Modric's Croatia teammate Niko Kranjcar, the Portsmouth playmaker said: "He wants to go and I think it is the right time for him to go.
"If the money is right, he will go."

Chelsea swoop for Dutch sensation Curiel

Chelsea have swooped for Dutch sensation Shayton Curiel.
The 16 year-old attacker is tied to amateur club Spartaan'20, but was recently called into the Holland U17 squad.
Curiel said: "I've actually only been taking football seriously for the past six months. Now that I've been called into the U17 camp, it is extra special."
Chelsea have quickly recognised Curiel's talent and secured him for trials, which will kickoff in April.

Anelka drops 'Le Sulk' tag for Chelsea glory

Nicolas Anelka has dropped his 'Le Sulk' persona at Chelsea, insisting he's prepared to even become a supersub if it means delivering trophies to the Stamford Bridge fans.
The French striker said: "If you play at Chelsea, then the important thing is to win things as a team.
"Now we are in the final moments of the season and we have to win. So, if I can do anything to help the team to win, I will do it.
"Sometimes you play, and sometimes you don't. That's part of the game. You have to accept it as a group and realise the important thing is the team win something. There are so many games in a season at Chelsea that everyone will have the chance to contribute.
"I don't think about being a starter. Of course I want to play, but I want to help the team win things in the first place. That is the main thing I think about."

Essien convinced Chelsea can beat Man Utd for title

Michael Essien is convinced Chelsea can beat Manchester United to the Premiership title this season.

The Ghana midfielder said: "We've shown character by storming back into contention for the title when not many people gave us a chance.
"We need that character to get through the remaining matches successfully.
"It is very important for us to beat United if we are to win the title. But ultimately we must win all our remaining matches to be sure.
"At this stage of the season, any team is capable of dropping points so it is well within our reach to win the title."
Essien added: "The team is the most important thing. I'm not used to sitting on the bench but I will always give 100 per cent to the team and will continue to do that. I feel fresh and fit enough to finish the season on a high."

Chelsea ponder £4M claim against Lyn over Mikel

Chelsea are weighing up whether to make a £4 million claim against Lyn over their signing of John Obi Mikel.
Chelsea are considering the pursuit of a claim against Lyn after it emerged in court that Mikel's first professional contract with the Norwegian club was a forgery.
Morgan Andersen, a former director of Lyn, was found on Wednesday to have falsified the documents relating to Mikel in 2005. He was given a one-year jail sentence, suspended for two years, and ordered to pay costs. He plans to appeal.
Mikel was at the centre of controversy after he agreed to leave Lyn for Manchester United in April 2005 ,only to claim he had been coerced into signing against his will and was determined to join Chelsea. The dispute rumbled on for more than a year until Chelsea paid £16m in compensation - £12m to United, £4m to Lyn - to take the Nigerian to Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea must beat Real Madrid for Ronaldinho

Chelsea have been encouraged in their pursuit of Ronaldinho, though may have to beat Real Madrid to land the Barcelona star.
Ronaldinho reportedly has a release clause in his contract, but with the value thought to be prohibitively high, a more likely option should he be determined to leave would seem the possibility of invoking article 17 of FIFA's transfer regulations.
This allows players to buy out the remainder of their contract under certain circumstances and would likely prove a cheaper option.
Ronie's brother, Roberto de Assis said: "The possibility for Ronaldinho leaving Barcelona is always there.
"We are aware of the release clause, but we also know about the existence of article 17. Anything is possible.
"In football, results determine how things go. Barcelona have not won anything since last season and, as Ronaldinho is the star of the team, he is the one who is given the worst criticism."
Assis did not rule out the possibility of Ronaldinho moving to Real Madrid, saying: "It has already happened a number of times, even to big names such as Luis Figo.
"However, I don't like to name specific clubs."
Assis added Ronaldinho could well stay at the Nou Camp should Barca win either the Primera Liga or Champions League title.
He said: "The relationship is strained, but imagine if Barca win the Champions League. They wouldn't let him go if he was a champion, would they?
"With their hands on a title, everything would be different."

Chelsea's Anelka slams England tactics

Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka has slammed England's tactics for Wednesday night's friendly defeat in France.
Anelka revealed the French players were shocked by England's lack of ambition and said they were to blame for such a dull game.
He said: "From the moment we scored, we waited to see if they were going to attack or not, but the English did not leave their defensive positions and that was why the match was like that.
"It was a very good match for us and the victory was deserved. England is a big team, even though they won't be at Euro 2008, but the match had a lack of rhythm.
"For the penalty, I arrived before the keeper and he could do nothing else but bring me down otherwise I would have scored."

Chelsea's Drogba expects Inter Milan move

Fresh reports in Italy suggest that Didier Drogba is Serie A-bound this summer.
Drogba has told close friends that he will be heading to Inter Milan.
The Ivorian's long-term Chelsea future has been up-in-the-air ever since Jose Mourinho departed Stamford Bridge earlier this season.
He has been quoted as saying he wanted to leave, only to insist he was happy in West London and he intended on seeing out his current deal - which runs to 2012.
But now again his future is being called into question with Internazionale seemingly heading the queue for his services, although the likes of Milan, Barcelona and Real Madrid are all liable bidders should Chelsea decide to let Drogba leave.

Assulin agent won't dismiss Man City, Chelsea interest

Israeli starlet Gai Assulin is ready to shun English interest to remain at Barcelona.
The 16-year-old midfielder made history on Wednesday evening when he became his country's youngest ever international when he came on for Yossi Benayoun during their 1-0 win over Chile.
Assulin is one of the leading lights at La Masia - Barca's youth academy - and is currently featuring for their B side.
Barcelona are determined to hand him an extended contract and a three-year deal is waiting for him but once again the Catalonian giants are being forced to fend off interest from the Premier League in one of their prized youngsters.
Chelsea and Manchester City are both understood to have made enquiries with his agent Pini Zahavi in recent weeks, and he admits they are amongst the interested clubs - but he also insists Assulin is more than happy at Barca.
"Those teams are interesting and we will never say no," Zahavi said.
"But Gai feels good in Barcelona."

Malaysia fans may miss out on Chelsea appearance

Premier League giants Chelsea announced a mini-Asian tour on Thursday but said they may have to cancel the Malaysian leg if their Israeli coach Avram Grant is not allowed into the country.
Malaysia does not have diplomatic ties with Israel and its citizens -- including Grant and midfielder Tal Ben Haim -- must obtain special permission to travel here.
The Football Association of Malaysia told a press conference that tour organisers would raise the issue with the foreign ministry in order to obtain clearance for the pair.
Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon, who announced matches in Malaysia on July 29 and in China tentatively on July 23 in the southern city of Guangzhou, was confident approval would be secured.
"We really do not anticipate that to be a problem. We think it can be solved," Kenyon said.
But he indicated the London side could be forced to ditch the Malaysian visit if Grant and Ben Haim were banned from entering the country.
"We clearly could not travel without our top coach. This (tour) is a critical part of training for the 2008-2009 season," he told .
"It will make no sense to travel without a key member of the coaching staff."
Chelsea, who have strong support in Malaysia, are scheduled to play the much-derided national team who have slipped down the rankings to 164 after their heyday in the 1970s. The Chinese opponents have not yet been announced.
Kenyon said the tour was aimed at boosting football's profile in Asia. As in much of the region, the Premier League is wildly popular in Malaysia, although the national team attracts little support and sparse crowds.
"We are delighted we are coming to Asia, in particular Malaysia. Asia is an important region for football. We want football in Asia to grow from the top to the grassroots (level)," he said.
In 1997, Malaysia allowed Israel to compete in the 22-nation ICC Trophy cricket tournament here but the decision sparked a series of demonstrations in the capital.
Malaysia's population is dominated by Muslim Malays, but the nation is also home to large ethnic Chinese and Indian minorities.

Chelsea's Lampard forced to withdraw from England due to illness

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard was ruled out of last night's England friendly due to illness.
Lampard had not been certain of his place, having already missed Fabio Capello's first game in charge.
Chelsea star Lampard was caught up in controversy 12 months ago when he tried to fly home before England's Euro 2008 qualifier with Andorra.

Chelsea owner Abramovich planning Ronaldinho move

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is ready to pounce for Barcelona star Ronaldinho.
Barca are ready to flog Ronaldinho for £12million at the end of the season - putting Chelsea on red alert.
The Catalan giants are fed up with the Brazilian's erratic lifestyle and poor form this term.
In January, Abramovich provisionally agreed to hand Ronaldinho a five-year deal worth £11.6m a season. But the two-time world player of the year decided to stay in Spain until at least the end of the season.

Middlesbrough No2 Crosby: Cattermole will make Chelsea clash

Middlesbrough assistant boss Malcolm Crosby says Lee Cattermole will be fit for their clash with Chelsea.
Cattermole was pulled out of the England U21 squad this week with a hamstring injury, but Crosby said: "With a bit of luck Lee should be ok for upcoming match against Chelsea, it was rather more precaution when he pulled out.
"He could have got through it but they didn't want to risk it, so credit to England for that."

Chelsea's Terry tells Capello: I want England captaincy

Chelsea skipper John Terry refuses to give up on winning back the England captaincy.
"I will say here and now, I want to be the England captain," says Terry. "I want to keep that armband.
"I am really passionate about it. It means so much to me, to my family. I want to be a successful England captain. We haven't done so well over the past few months but I want to change that.
"If Mr Capello wants someone who is going to go out there, desperate to win and to do everything it takes, then I'll be his right choice. If not, that's down to him to make the decision.
"Of course, I'll respect whatever decision he makes. Mr Capello is a clever man and a great manager and he'll give it to the right person."
However, Terry did admit: "Being passionate has got me where I am today. I do set an example in the way I play.
"If they don't want an England captain fighting for England in every way possible, fighting to win the ball and come out of the tackle fighting for the cause, then that's down to them to make that decision. I am not going to change the way I am on the pitch."

Hadjuk Split striker Kalini wanted by Chelsea

Hadjuk Split striker Nikola Kalini is interesting Chelsea.
Chelsea football chief Frank Arnesen has been watching Kalini and The Sun says he is aware that it will take £7 million to land the forward.

Chelsea kid Di Santo delighted to score against Arsenal

Chelsea striker Franco di Santo was delighted with his goal in this week's 1-1 draw with Arsenal reserves.
"To come to a new country where everything is new but I can still play well is good for me," Argentine Di Santo said.
"I am so happy. I helped the team to a draw so it was an important goal."

Terry urges Lampard to stick with Chelsea

John Terry is urging Frank Lampard to stay with Chelsea.
Lampard has put new contract talks on-hold until the summer and Terry said: "You need an English backbone; one with that force, that togetherness, that pulling together. It's why Arsenal might still come up short in the run-in.
"It's vital Frank stays. After the season has finished we need to get Frank sat down and agreeing a new deal.
"He is Chelsea now, the fans love him and you couldn't go out and replace him."

Cech set for Chelsea return

Petr Cech has stepped up training at Chelsea.
Cech, who has missed six games with an ankle injury, should play against Middlesbrough if he comes through the rest of the week's training sessions unscathed.
Chelsea No.2 Carlo Cudicini has been doing a reasonable job in his absence but Avram Grant's side have missed Cech's dominance in the penalty area and particularly at claiming crosses.

Chelsea skipper Terry denies Mourinho rift

Chelsea skipper John Terry has denied reports a blow-up with Jose Mourinho hastened the former manager's exit from Stamford Bridge.
Terry said: "There was a row after the Rosenborg game but there is no problem between us now. We had an argument, like you do sometimes.
"The next day we had a film premiere and then the manager was sacked. I came in and saw him and he was fine with me. Even now we still keep in contact.
"There never was a problem. I didn't want to get rid of him. He is probably the best manager I have worked with."

Chelsea's Anelka puts MLS clubs on red alert

Chelsea ace Nicolas Anelka has opened the door to a move to the USA's MLS at the end of his current contract.
"I will be 32 at the end of my Chelsea contract. If they want to keep me I will stay," said the French ace.
"Otherwise you never know. I can move to USA or come back to Paris Saint Germain. It is an option I can't exclude."

Ex-Lyn chief Anderson found guilty over contracts for Chelsea's Mikel

Former Lyn Oslo director Morgan Andersen has been found guilty of forging contracts relating to John Obi Mikel in 2005.
Andersen, who has told the court he plans to lodge an appeal, was handed a one-year suspended jail sentence for the offence.
Nigeria international Mikel, who left Lyn to join Chelsea in the summer of 2006 after a protracted transfer saga also involving Manchester United, initially joined the Norwegian club as an amateur as he was under 18.
After the midfielder's 18th birthday, the Norwegian FA were presented with a professional contract which Mikel has denied signing.
Judge Torjus Gard said in his judgement: "The court is in no doubt the contracts were amended and Andersen knew this."
Andersen is currently on leave from his post as director of Fredrikstad, another top-flight club in Norway.

Chelsea to offer Makelele new deal to 2011

Chelsea have opened talks with Claude Makelele over a two-year extension to his contract until 2011.
Despite being 35 years old, the midfielder has continued to impress and Chelsea want him to prolong his career as long as possible.
Makelele will retire from international football after playing for France at Euro 2008 and the club hope it will improve his stamina.
Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho told Makelele at the start of the season he would play less frequently and picked him only twice before he left the club in September.
But the former Real Madrid midfielder has made 24 appearances under Mourinho's replacement Avram Grant and has been a regular in the Champions League side.
Makelele's deal finishes at the end of next season but Chelsea have given him the option of a one-year and two-year extension and he will make his decision after Euro 2008.

Charlton boss denies Chelsea pressure over Sinclair

Charlton boss Alan Pardew has rubbished reports that Chelsea have demanded the return of Scott Sinclair due to a lack of action at The Valley.
The 19-year-old midfielder is yet to start a game for the Addicks since his loan move on

February 28 and has made just three substitute appearances since his arrival.
"I've been speaking to Chelsea about this because it's difficult for him to come into a side that is not playing an expansive game," Pardew said.
"Chelsea are aware of my thoughts on this matter and I'm confident that Scott will stay."

Amazing Grant rant inspired Chelsea players

Chelsea boss Avram Grant turned the air blue in an amazing rant at his players ahead of Sunday's victory over Arsenal, it has been revealed.
Grant blew his top in an amazing 20-minute training ground rant ahead of the contest against Arsenal which left most of the club's big names stunned.
A Chelsea source said: "You could hear a pin drop when Avram kicked off - everyone just sat there stunned.
"He's adopted a pretty much softly approach since taking over and maybe a few of the players had started to become a bit complacent.
"But he was clearly fed up with things and said he could baby-sit the players no more and that it was time they started taking responsibility for things themselves.
"There may have been some in the squad who doubted whether he had the bottle or the backbone for the job but after that blast they are in no doubts he means business now."
The source added: "He said he felt there were some who were happy to hide behind others or excuses when things went wrong, but everyone should be in it together in good times and the bad."

Inter Milan new favourites for Chelsea's Drogba

Inter Milan are new favourites for Chelsea striker Didier Drogba.

With Jose Mourinho in advanced talks with Inter president Massimo Moratti, the former Blues boss is expected to push for the signing of Drogba.
Drogba is ready to leave Chelsea at the end of this season and along with Inter, has AC Milan, Real Madrid and Barcelona chasing his signature.

Diego coy over Chelsea interest

Werder Bremen midfielder Diego has attempted to duck transfer speculation while in London with the Brazil squad.
Ahead of tonight's friendly against Sweden, Diego was asked by Brazilian journalists about interest from Chelsea, but would only say: "Out of respect to my club, Werder Bremen, I would prefer not to say anything.
"But I will confirm, yes, that several proposals have emerged."

Chelsea to offer Makelele new deal

Chelsea are ready to discuss a new contract with veteran midfielder Claude Makelele.
Paris sources say Blues management want the 35 year-old to go round again next season and are preparing a new deal for the French veteran.

Inter Milan draw up £16M deal for Mourinho

Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti is ready to hand Jose Mourinho a bumper £16 million contract to move to Italy at the end of the season.
Moratti has lost patience with Roberto Mancini and intends to dismiss him at the end of this season - even if the Scudetto is successfully defended.
Former Chelsea boss Mourinho is Moratti's No1 choice to succeed Mancini and aware that Barcelona, Real Madrid and AC Milan are also keen, the Inter supremo is willing to hand the Portuguese a four-year deal worth £4 million-a-season.
Via Mourinho's representatives, Moratti has already received a fax detailing the Portuguese's coaching methods and plans he sees for Inter. The big stumbling block for the Inter president will be convincing Mourinho to work within the club's current football structure - including with directors Marco Branca and Lele Oriali.
Wherever he goes, Mourinho is adamant he wants total control on all football matters.

Drogba remains determined to quit Chelsea

Didier Drogba remains determined to leave Chelsea in the summer, it has been revealed.
Drogba reached an agreement with the club on returning from the African Cup of Nations last month that he would not comment on his future until the end of the season, although his silence does not equate to renewed satisfaction.
The 30-year-old has kept his word, ending the almost daily bulletins of distress in the French press, but he has told friends that nothing has changed and he still wishes to leave.
After four years in England, Drogba is in search of a new challenge and is acutely aware that this summer may present his last opportunity to find one with a leading European club. AC Milan and Real Madrid expressed interest last summer and are likely to do so again, while wherever Jose Mourinho ends up will provide another possible destination as the Portuguese would love to be reunited with a player whom he signed for �24million from Marseilles in 2004.

Chelsea's Anelka: Terry should be England captain

Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka says teammate John Terry should be England's permanent captain. Terry has been overlooked for tonight's friendly against France, with Manchester United's Rio Ferdinand to wear the armband, but Anelka says: "I would have John as captain of England if I was England manager, that's for sure. Sometimes it's harder to be captain of Chelsea than it is for England. So if he can captain Chelsea, he can certainly do it for England.
"I think John is great. He is difficult to get past in training and if I play against him at the Stade de France, he will be a big challenge for me.
"He is very good. In a one-on-one, it is very difficult to pass him. In the air he is very strong too. He will make it very tough for me.
"I think he is world class. When you play for Chelsea you have to be world class, he's a captain, he's playing all of the top games for us in the Premier League and Champions League and he's a top-class player."

Chelsea's Terry paid for restaurant trip with England captaincy

Chelsea skipper John Terry lost the England captaincy, in part, over his infamous outing to a pizza restaurant last week, it has been revealed.
A picture of Terry's £150,000 Bentley parked in a disabled bay in Esher, Surrey, last week counted against him in the final reckoning.
England boss Fabio Capello said: "A captain must be an example to follow in training and a leader during the game. I would also hope he would be an example, a role model, outside the game and in life.
"That's very important. Not just for the England captain, but for everything we, as sportsmen, show youngsters. I wasn't put under any pressure (by the FA) and all the decisions I have made - technical or otherwise - have been my own decisions.
"We need to be role models when we play for England and when we play for our clubs. Part of this involves fair play and respect towards the referee and the public who come to see the games. In that respect, we need to get back something we may be losing a bit. They are my choices. I've got my own eyes, I can see things and I can understand things for myself.
"I will have a permanent captain from August 20. Until then, John Terry has a chance to become England captain."

Anelka says trophy will help Chelsea fans to forget Mourinho

Nicolas Anelka says Chelsea fans will soon forget about Jose Mourinho if they can win a trophy this season.
Anelka said: "All the people that are criticising him are comparing him to Mourinho because he was very different to Grant.
"If by the end of the season we were able to do something good, people will quickly forget Mourinho because we've won trophies."

Nevin urges Chelsea fans to back Grant

Former Chelsea star Pat Nevin has called on fans to back coach Avram Grant after their victory over Arsenal.
Nevin declared: "It could have been so different and many Blues fans were furious with the manager when Ballack was taken off, but Grant is sounding fairly magnanimous and seems to understand that it was the passion of the fans that led to the frustration.
"In the end some will like him and others will not, some will rate him, others will think he is a pretty poor replacement for his predecessor, that's football, these differing opinions are fine, you pay your money you make your choice.
"One thing is for sure though, he will be here at least until we find out whether or not we are going to be champions of England, Europe or neither this season.
"Maybe it is worth everyone getting behind him, or at least laying off a bit, and staying as positive as possible until these final two issues are resolved. Though I will be honest and admit that I thought one had been resolved against Arsenal before those substitutions were made.
"In the meantime, it is a very long shot and we are the outsiders by a good distance, but it could still be the club's finest ever season if we win the Champions League and it is not beyond the bounds of possibility."

Chelsea's Drogba: Arsenal title hopes now over

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba says Sunday's victory has ended Arsenal's hopes of winning the Premiership this season.
Drogba declared: "Arsenal are not there now, they lost the game, maybe it is going to be difficult for their confidence, I don't know, but I just try to look at my team and I think we did a good job. "It is always difficult to play against Arsenal but we were compact and strong, we deserved it."
Bacary Sagna had put Arsenal in front but Chelsea stormed back with Drogba's double keeping them well in the hunt for the Barclays Premier crown just five points behind Manchester United. "It was an important win because it gives us the strength and the belief that we can still be champions," explained Drogba.

Cole convinced Chelsea can make late title bid

Joe Cole believes Chelsea are primed for a late season title push after Sunday's victory over Arsenal.
Cole said: "We both wanted to win the game so it was end to end, a draw wouldn't have been good for either of us, so we got the spoils.
"We were just a little bit more aggressive with our play.
"We got in their faces a little bit and when Didier (Drogba) plays as well as that you have got to use him, so we just kept knocking the ball up to his chest and joining him from there.
"We still think we can do it but we have to hope that Manchester United drop points and we win all of our games, but we will keep going, we are on a good run."

Man Utd boss Ferguson: Chelsea will decide title

Sir Alex Ferguson accepts Chelsea represent the greatest threat to Manchester United's hopes of recording back-to-back Premier League titles.
The Blues' crucial 2-1 victory over Arsenal on Sunday extended their unbeaten run to 14 league games as they continue to push United all the way in the race for the title.
With five points now separating Ferguson's men and Chelsea, the United boss believes the Stamford Bridge clash between the two sides on Saturday April 26 could prove decisive.
"I think Chelsea hold the key," Ferguson said. "We've still got to go to Stamford Bridge where they've got a formidable home record.
"We have established a good lead but we're not taking anything for granted, we have to carry on playing the way we have been.
"As I've said all along, the team who shows real consistency between now and the end of the season will win the league."