Chelsea suffer setback over Didier Drogba’s return to Stamford Bridge

DIDIER DROGBA’S return to Stamford Bridge could be put on hold for a while.

 

Didier Drogba denied reports of him announcing his retirement from football

 

The Ivorian has been heavily linked with taking up a coaching role with the Blues in recent months to work alongside interim boss Guus Hiddink.

Reports emerged in France earlier today that Drogba had retired from football - ending his spell with MLS outfit Montreal Impact.

But the striker took to Twitter to deny reports of him hanging up his boots just yet, meaning Chelsea could have to wait a little longer if Drogba is to make a return to west London.

 

Lovely to receive these messages but I have not yet announced my retirement & am still in discussion with @impactmontreal about my future.

— Didier Drogba (@didierdrogba) January 6, 2016

 

Drogba tweeted: “Lovely to receive these messages but I have not yet announced my retirement & am still in discussion with @impactmontreal about my future.” 

The 37-year-old’s contract expires at the end of the year and Hiddink is respectful of Drogba’s commitments to his current side.

"A few days ago before the Sunderland game I said that those rare kind of former players with this status would be very good for any club to have,” Hiddink said last month.

 

"Especially him because he's a Chelsea legend, but for the moment we have to respect his contract with Montreal.

"It depends on the player himself, you need to give them time and opportunities to find out what the best is for them.

"It may be on the coaching staff or maybe as an ambassador, but that is too official and functional for me. They need to go into the squad and help players with their experience."