Chelsea boss Guus Hiddink is feeling inspired by their title battle with Manchester United.

A vital second-half strike by Didier Drogba earned Chelsea all three points on a rain-soaked Fratton Park pitch and Hiddink paid tribute to the 'never say die' attitude of his players.

"What is good in this team, is that they react when there are difficulties," said Hiddink.

"Many players react in a way I normally don't like but this team is not happy when things are not going well and they make an extra effort to get their rewards.

"I notice there is a desire to have success and we have some key players who are demanding a lot from themselves and also from the other ones, which is key for big players with a big status.

"They challenge each other and it is very open. It shows the team is not fed-up and has desire.

"In difficult circumstances we are satisfied with a win. It was a tough win. The first half was equal and we tried to push on in the second half because we have to win if we want to put pressure on the number one team in the league.

"It didn't happen until late in the game but we have to admit we are very happy. Petr Cech, at the end, when they played all or nothing, made one or two fine saves.

"It was very important to get three points because if we want to keep up the pressure, we have to win.

"United have games in hand and they have a buffer. They are an experienced team but that is why it is good that we keep on winning.

"It keeps the pressure on. It is good for everyone in this championship to keep the pressure on the number one team."