THE ESSENTIAL

Chelsea missed the opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to four points after being held at Hull. The Blues needed Didier Drogba to rescue them after Steven Mouyokolo had opened the scoring.

Chelsea's Russia midfielder Yury Zhirkov has blamed his niggling injury problems on his recent move to London from CSKA Moscow.

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti insists he has no plans to leave Stamford Bridge next summer in order to take charge of Italy.

John Terry should be fit to lead England against Brazil while his Chelsea team-mate Frank Lampard is only set for a three-week injury lay-off.

John Terry has warned Chelsea's title rivals they do not intend to merely sit on their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League.

Chelsea have been rocked by an injury to England left-back Ashley Cole which threatens to keep him out of action for weeks.

Chelsea will be able to buy in the January transfer window after the CAS suspended their FIFA-imposed transfer ban, pending a final decision.

Carlo Ancelotti hopes Joe Cole will become the latest player to commit to Chelsea and is also optimistic about the club's transfer ban appeal.

Controversial Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has told opposing fans they can boo him all they like after insisting he is not a 'diver'.

Chelsea striker Salomon Kalou claims he has signed a new four-year contract at Stamford Bridge - and is now 'free to concentrate on football'.

TRANSFERS

Who? - Joe Cole, J
Where is he? - Chelsea
Who is he linked with? - Manchester City
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Who? - Marouane Fellaini
Where is he? - Everton
Who is he linked with? - Chelsea
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