Didier Drogba says Chelsea missing the top four would be a "DISASTER". This season is shaping up to be the worst ever in the striker's time at Stamford Bridge and young boss Andre Villas-Boas, 34, is feeling the heat.

Drogba, 33, said: "If we don't make the top four it would be a disaster.

"Every time we've started a season since I've been with Chelsea we never even finished as low as fourth.

"We have to make the top four because Chelsea is a big club. Of course it can happen that the club goes below fourth.

"When I joined Chelsea the club was second and I helped them to be first. It is the hardest season I've known since I've been here. The players and fans are used to being in the first two or three but this is different.

"We are having a difficult season and it's not always easy when you change manager and there are new players to fit in the team. I know that because I've had six managers in my time at Chelsea.

"For me the manager's age is not an issue, you have to respect his position and his authority."