Twelve months ago, Didier Drogba was a much-maligned character. Booed by his own fans, his performances lacked spark and consistency. Persistently riling opposition defenders, his style of play attracted many critics. His controversial admission that he sometimes dived left him open to attacks in the media and by football fans around the country.

A year later and Drogba was the star of the show as he led Chelsea to another Carling Cup triumph -their second in three seasons. In a performance overshadowed by the mass brawl that tarnished what had been a magnificent final, he scored twice he inspired a below-par Chelsea to victory from a goal down.


Drogba's goals capped a fine individual performance as he outpaced and outmuscled Philippe Senderos, who had no answer to the Ivorian striker's physical presence. It has become an all-too-familiar story this season, Chelsea stuttering but coming out on top. And their success has largely been as a result of the superb season Drogba is having.  With 28 goals in 42 games, he has easily outperformed his strike partner Andriy Schevchenko. As the leading scorer in the Premiership, he must now be favourite to win the player of the year award.

The only player to approach Drogba's level of performance this year has been Cristiano Ronaldo. He too has been in fine goalscoring form and is the Premiership's leading scorer from midfield. The Manchester United wizard's fancy footwork and nimble feet now lead to an end product, which makes him one of the most difficult players for defenders to cope with.

Ronaldo is certainly the most exciting player to watch; however, the difference between him and Drogba is that Ronaldo has been playing for a team in form. United dominate the opposition, giving the Portuguese ace plenty of opportunities to run at defenders, score goals and show of his array of tricks. Drogba has carried Chelsea. Without him they would be struggling to make the top four - and they certainly wouldn't have won any silverware.


The reason for Drogba’s improved performance can be attributed to two factors. First of all, after a season in the Premiership he has acclimatised to the pace of the league and is now a much more confident player. Secondly, he seems to have been inspired by the arrival of Shevchenko and has risen to the challenge of having a much bigger name playing alongside him.

The dark days of 12 months ago are long behind Drogba, and along with John Terry he is Chelsea's most prized asset.

Who should be Player of the Year for 2006-07? Let Sportingo have your views.