Chelsea boss Avram Grant defended his new-look strike-partnership of Nicolas Anelka and Didier Drogba after yesterday's Carling Cup final defeat by Tottenham.

Anelka was somewhat wasted out on the left of a supposed three-pronged attack, but which often left Drogba isolated and creative England man Joe Cole was kept on the bench until extra-time.

But the 52-year-old insisted it was a strike partnership which can deliver.

"It was the first game they played together. I think it will be a good combination," said Grant.

"We wanted to play Anelka on the side because he's a creative player and quick. That's what we wanted from him.

"Today was not an easy game for them to do their best."

Grant added: "It is not a casino - there is no gamble in football.

"They can play together, no question. You can't pick players like them and say it's a gamble."