Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka have pledged their futures to Chelsea. Both players enjoy great reputations in France, where Drogba established himself as a star with Olympique Marseille and Anelka a favourite of PSG.

Asked about the prospect of returning to their former clubs, however, both players said the prospect was unlikely.

"This is not me. As a player in any case," Anelka told France Football, while Drogba also remarked: "As I am continuing with Chelsea, I do not see myself doing that either, I don't see how I could return."