Chelsea interim manager Roberto Di Matteo is adamant that Didier Drogba has the ability and the fitness to contribute in the Premier League next season.
The 34-year-old forward is out of contract in the summer and, although talks are said to be ongoing, speculation is rife that he will leave at the end of the season.
Drogba has been rejuvenated following the arrival of Di Matteo, scoring four crucial goals in nine games, and the Italian has dropped a big hint that he wants him to stay.
"Didier's fit and he is certainly capable of playing in the Premier League for Chelsea, or someone else next year," said Di Matteo.
"He could do it for another couple of years at this level. He won't retire.
"Whether he'll be here or elsewhere, I don't know. He's part of the history of this club, like many players, and always will be. But the final decision is for the club to take."
Drogba will miss tomorrow's visit to Arsenal with a knee injury.
Robert Summerscales
