Chelsea could be without Didier Drogba for five crucial games due to the Ivory Coast's African Nations Cup commitments.

The Daily Star says the undoubted first choice faces missing FIVE league matches while he leads his Ivory Coast side in Gabon and Equatorial New Guinea in the tournament, which begins on January 21.

With such a strong squad, led by Drogba, the Elephants are 6-4 favourites to lift the cup. That would mean 33-year-old Drogba being away for more than five weeks and playing six matches.

It would also mean him missing the crucial home clash with title rivals Manchester United on February 5.

He would also miss games with Sunderland, Norwich, Swansea and Everton.