Using a survey system across is global networks, ESPN has ranked Chelsea FC legend Didier Drogba the 43rd best player in the World Cup. ESPN says that it ranked the Top 50 players “based on an extensive survey of ESPN writers, editors and TV analysts across all regions (ESPN FC, ESPN Argentina, ESPN Brazil, ESPN Deportes, ESPN Mexico)” and that it will reveal five every day until the World Cup begins.



Didier Drogba has not played for Chelsea since the Champions League final in 2012 but this year has been linked with a move back to Stamford Bridge as a player/coach. The striker has been in fine form for Galatasaray and has been linked with a few Serie A clubs since he expressed a desire to continue playing in the Champions League.

Here is what ESPN had to say about Didier Drogba:

No. 43 Didier Drogba, Galatasaray/Cote d’Ivoire Why he’s ranked: Does this 36-year-old icon of African sport have a final headline-grabbing World Cup left in him? At his best, few defenders could handle this powerful, dynamic, hungry and potent striker whose record of scoring big goals in his Chelsea days was remarkable. A glut of goals in FA Cup finals, League Cup finals and a decisive contribution in the 2012 Champions League final made Drogba a Stamford Bridge legend. Key stat: In eight seasons with Chelsea, Drogba scored 157 goals, fourth-most in club history. First and only African player to score 100 Premier League goals. What the experts say: “Drogba is and will be among the top five players in the history of African football. Rarely do you see a player with strength and technique of the Ivorian. He also has leadership and the ability to convince those around him. While his physical performance won’t be the same, his touch of ball will be intact and inside the area he’ll be lethal.” — Armando Neria, ESPN Mexico

We probably will not see Drogba in a Chelsea kit next season but he may wear the crest again one day as a position coach. It seems that the big striker is not ready to hang up his boots quite yet and will look to lead the Elephants to World Cup glory this summer with the support of the Chelsea supporters behind him.

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