Zhirkov set for shock exit.
Yuri Zhirkov’s recent weekend trip to Russia has sparked rumours of the player’s exit from Stamford Bridge. According to ESPN Soccernet, Yuri is on the verge of completing a move to Russian club, Anzhi Makhachkala.
Zhirkov has long been unsettled in London and has often stated he would like to secure regular first-team football. However after the arrival of new manager Andre Villas-Boas it had appeared like the Russian was quite happy to stay and fight for a place in the squad. However, the deal now looks imminent with the Zhirkov’s prospective team-mate, Rasim Tagirbekov telling Russian newspaper Izvestia: “Everybody in the team is very glad that he will join our club.”
The deal that is rumoured to be around £13m will also free up space in Chelsea’s 25-man Premier League squad. And could be an indication of the club’s pursuit for a creative playmaker.
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Torres happy with pre-season.
Fernando Torres has not been speaking to the media in recent weeks, but that all changed following his classy goal against Aston Villa. ChelseaTV got an exclusive interview with the Spaniard and uncovered the player’s feelings on the pre-season.
When asked about what the goal meant to him, Fernando said: “It gives you confidence when you score with the first ball you touch, but especially because with a 2-0 lead we closed the game. Everything is easier after that”
The striker also spoke about the new manager and what he has brought to the squad. “The manager has given minutes to everyone and everyone feels they are part of the team and that is important,” said Torres.
The Blues who won all of their games so far have only two weeks for the season to commence and with the exception Michael Essien the fitness of the squad is at a high.
The Fab Four.
Chelsea’s recent pre-season trip to Asia has been a memorable one, not just for the on the pitch action, as some of the players showed recently. Petr Cech, Didier Drogba, Paulo Ferreira and Florent Malouda were seen at a hotel restaurant in Hong Kong enjoying some time on a different kind of stage.
The four stars along with the club’s traveling chef Darren Taylor got together on stage to sing a number and entertain diners in the hotel restaurant. Petr Cech showcased his talent on the drums, while Drogba was his usual playful self.
The video can be seen on Chelsea’s Official YouTube channel.
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