Ballack: Chelsea rely on big-game Drogba

Michael Ballack hailed Chelsea matchwinner Didier Drogba after Sunday's victory over Arsenal.

Drogba once again proved too hot for Arsenal to handle, as the Ivory Coast striker made it 12 goals in his last 12 games against Wenger's young Gunners.

Ballack hailed the impact of the 31-year-old, who is just back from international duty at the African Nations Cup and came within inches of netting a hat-trick yesterday when his 20-yard free-kick crashed back off the crossbar.

"In big games like this, he is there and that is why he is a big player," said Ballack.

"Didier has unbelievable physical strength, but he has great technique, is a great free-kick taker and has the nose of a striker.

"He has a lot of qualities and not a lot of players are like this."

Ballack added: "But we have a lot of big characters and this is why we have a good team.

"It is really great to play in a team like this. Everybody fights for everybody - there is a good spirit and experience in the team. We have played for a few years together and have a lot of personal qualities in the players.

"Even if you don't play a fantastic game yourself, we have players who can decide games by one action."