Looking back to the Fulham game, he pinpointed half time as a significant point in the season so far.   He told us that he had chosen not to rant and rave at the players who had failed to perform and seen us go in a goal behind, instead concentrating on the technical details of the changes that he wished to implement before the second half started.   He was quick though to praise the spirit of the team, and particularly the senior players; Terry, Lampard & Drogba who it seems had resorted to more “traditional” methods of motivating their underperforming team mates.

Ancelotti stressed how difficult it was to pull a game around in those circumstances and took the opportunity to praise his team for doing so successfully.

This led onto a discussion about Drogba and the others heading to the African Cup of Nations.  The manager emphasised that the loss of Drogba the man was as significant as that of Drogba the striker, but that he was unworried particularly to be losing players at a time at which we would only be playing one game a week.    He seemed to feel that the congested nature of the fixture calendar in  December made it all the harder for him and his training staff to pull round the slump, given that he had so little time on the pitches of Cobham.    It’s fair to say that he expects a further improvement as January progresses.

When asked about the FA Cup itself, Ancelotti was quick to report that the club had left him in no doubt as to the importance of the competition as soon as he took over the reigns this summer, and when asked if he desired a watch similar to the very expensive one purchased by the players for Guus Hiddink after victory at Wembley in May, he indicated how pleased he would be to receive one in similar circumstances in 2010.

Moving onto the game itself, he felt that Nicolas Anelka would be ready to train with the team tomorrow, having trained alone yesterday and that he would most likely start in what he promised to be a strong line-up.    

Finally discussion moved onto the possibility of new signings in the January transfer window.   An assertion from the press that he had said he would not be buying anyone in the window was met only with laughter, though he did stress how difficult it was to sign players of appropriate calibre at this time of year.    In light of the morning’s financial results he confirmed that there was no issue with regards to the availability of funds from the club, but closed the conference by asserting again how much confidence he has in the squad as it stands.   I think that’s called giving yourself a little “wriggle room”.

So, a new year, improving performances and who knows when it comes to new additions.  More than once Carlo declared his satisfactions at being the best team in his first six months in England – let’s hope he’s talking in similar terms when the pots are handed out in May.

Photo by kind permission of Dan Davies

Whether it’s the method of voting, or the individual preferences of the voters, it was the more eye-catching forward and attacking midfielders who dominate our awards.Indeed our winner is a model of consistency at the highest level and an appropriate recipient of the award in more ways than one. Step forward Frank Lampard, who picked up more than 10% of the Man of the Match votes throughout the entire season.It’s been a tough season on and off the field for Frank, who’s maintained his performance from the seasons first knockings right through to the Champions League final where he scored our goal, was desperately unlucky not to win the thing when his extra-time shot rebounded off the crossbar and had the balls to successfully convert a penalty in the shoot out. Frank’s strength of character was aptly demonstrated with his performances at the end of the season whilst he struggled with the sudden illness and eventually, and sadly death of his mother – for this as much as anything else we salute you Frank, now come along and sign that nice new contract please!

A stronger performance from Joe Cole at the end of the season would possibly have seen the CFCnet trophy going in the same direction as the official club award.Sadly Joe was perhaps the one player who succumbed to fatigue in the last month.Our highest appearance maker of the season, Joe has to settle for a runners up position.

In contrast to Joe Cole, Michael Ballack rose through the “Player of the Season” charts consistently throughout the second half of the season.Despite making his first appearance as late as 19th December, the German captain’s unfailingly high level of performance saw him comfortably into third place. Michael scored an average of 22% of the vote in all of the games he played in and was easily the highest scoring player on a “votes per game” basis. We look forward to more commanding performances from him in what will hopefully be a triumphant and injury free 2008/09 season.

The full run down of the voting is as follows:

Pos      Player                 %

1          Lampard             10.21%
2          Cole (J)               9.28%
3          Ballack                9.26%
4          Drogba               6.36%
5          Essien                6.26%
6          Wright-Phillips     6.23%
7          Cech                   5.61%
8          Carvalho             4.73%
9          Mikel                   4.40%
10         Shevchenko        4.07%
11         Alex                    3.97%
12         Anelka                3.97%
13         Belletti                3.97%
14         Terry                   3.64%
15         Makelele             3.13%
16         Cole (A)              2.62%
17         Kalou                  1.96%
18         Malouda              1.86%
19         Pizarro                1.71%
20         Bridge                 1.36%
21         Cudicini               1.26%
22         Ben Haim            0.97%
23         Sidwell                0.89%
24         Hilario                 0.81%
25         Riise(!)                0.55%
26         Sinclair                0.53%
27         Ferreira               0.47%
28         Johnson              0.04%

Looking at the average performance for every player (established by dividing their total score by the number of games they played), we get the following as our “Team of the Season”. I’ve lined it up as a 4-5-1 as this is the formation we played most often. There are some surprising choices and omissions:

Hilario

Belletti – Carvalho – Alex – Cole (A)

Cole (J) – Ballack – Essien – Lampard – Wright-Phillips

Drogba

No place for our inspirational captain and a big surprise with Hilario scoring a higher average in his six appearances than either Cech in his 36 or Carlo in his 19. Had I followed our former manager and decided to deploy Essien in a full back roll, his midfield berth could have gone to John Obi Mikel without overly weakening the team, but I’ve always been more comfortable with Michael in midfield – hopefully this summer’s transfer activity will mean that we see him there a little more frequently next season.

So there you have it. Frank is our player of the year – who’s your favourite to take the title in 2008/09?

ARSENAL LOOMING

36 months ago today, and focus switches to the forthcoming Arsenal tie which could lead us just one step from the title. Henry, Campbell and Ljungberg were nursing injuries and we were told the title was ours for the taking. A first win over Arsenal at the Bridge in ages seemed expected – experienced Blues knew better than to count their chickens!

EUROPEAN HIGHLIGHT

One of the finest European performances at the Bridge came on this night in 1998. One nil down to Vicenza from the first leg, Chelsea had it all to do in the European Cup-Winners Cup Semi Final Second Leg. On a rain filled evening, Chelsea spirits were dampened by the visitors taking the lead against the run of play early on. The Blues had a mountain to climb. But Climb they did – firstly Gus Poyet, capitalising on a palmed out Zola shot made it one all on the night. Shortly after half time and a picture book cross from Player Manager Vialli, who had hared down the right flank found Gianfranco Zola’s unmarked head, and he planted the ball home to make the scores level on aggregate. Vicenza still lead on aggregate however, until substitute Mark Hughes took down ‘keeper Ed De Goey’s long punt out, beat the defence, and from his own flick down placed the sweetest of left foot volleys into the corner of the net to send the Blues to only their second ever European Final. Pandemonium reigned at the Bridge – the good times were here again!

DEBUT VICTORY

19 April 1997 and goals from Scott Minto and Mark Hughes see Chelsea to a 2-1 Premiership victory over Leicester City. Danny Granville, recently signed for £300k from Cambridge City makes his debut. He would go on to win a Cup Winners Cup medal, but played only 26 times for the Blues before being sold on to Leeds United for £1.6 million.

HISTORY MAKING FLIGHT

Chelsea make history on this day in 1957 with their Good Friday match at St, James’s Park Newcastle, becoming the first English team to fly to a league fixture. The plane home would have been a happy one as the team returned with a 2-1 victory, courtesy of goals from Derek Saunders and Les Stubbs.

VICTORY CUP

Way back in 1919 and in the short-lived “Victory Cup” Chelsea beat Crystal Palace 4-0 at Highbury in a Highbury Semi-Final on the way to lifting the trophy later that month. Goals came from Stewart Davidson, Harry Wilding and Joe Smith.

Daily Dose: 20 April 2006

Following Chelsea through the years has always been about highs and lows. Today’s “Daily Dose” remembers some of the many “lows” through the year – all of them occurring on 20 April!

TITLE WILL HAVE TO WAIT

A goalless draw against Arsenal this time last year may have at least meant that we didn’t have to suffer the ignonimity of some no-mark left back smashing home the winner for our visitors from 40 yards with seconds to go, but did mean that we were still two wins away from winning that elusive first title in 50 years. As Pete Bull reports, we’d been fortunate not to fall behind to a Pires shot that rebounded off the crossbar, but gradually imposed ourselves on the game without creating too many chances. Frank Lampard perhaps had the best, his first half shot saved by the legs of Lehman and a second half shot that fizzed just wide of the German ‘keepers upright.

THE NIGHT IT ALL WENT WRONG

Claudio Ranieri arguably sealed his dismissal on this night in 2004 with the bizarre substitutions that came in the Champions League Semi-Final first leg against Monaco. Having heard that Jose Mourinho may have been being “entertained” on Roman’s yacht in the nearby harbour, and seeing the opportunity to win a game poised at one all following the sending off of Monaco’s Zikos, he sent on the disinterested Veron for Groenkjaer, Hasselbaink for Melchiot, and pushed first Scott Parker and then Robert Huth to right back. Monaco coped well and despite being short-handed scored again through Morientes and Nonda to ultimately put the tie beyond our reach.

NARROW DEFEAT (THANKS GUS!)

After a performance full of passion, Chelsea narrowly lose out to Real Zaragoza in the second leg of the European-Cup Winners Cup Semi-Final in 1995. Goals from Sinclair, Stein and Furlong give us hope, but the Spanish side score the goal to see them through 4-3 on aggregate.

CITY GROUND NIGHTMARE

Saturday 20 April 1991. A rainy City Ground, Nottingham is the venue for a “failed” experiment. Manager Bobby Campbell plays Tony Dorigo on the right wing, looking to use his pace to create chances for Dixon & Durie up front. Alas the pressure is all the other way, as Dave Beasant, under protected by a defence including current assistant manager Steve Clarke (playing as an emergency centre-back) picks the ball out of the net seven times in a humiliating 7-0 defeat. 19 year old Craig Burley makes his debut as substitute, coming on for Kerry Dixon after an hour. There is considerable conjecture that this game is also noted for being the first time that “and Leicester” was added to the “We all follow the Chelsea, over land and sea” chant.

ANOTHER THRASHING

20 April 1935 sees Chelsea going down 6-0 at Anfield, to a Liverpool side who would end the season with only 4 points more than the Blues. John Jackson was the unfortunate goal-keeper risking a sore back.

Daily Dose: 21 April 2006

JESPER ON SONG

Jesper Groenkjaer scores one and sets up another to earn him the “Man of the Match” award in a 4-1 Premiership victory over Everton, the last time we played on this day, in 2003. The win, which guarantees the Blues a European Spot for the following season. As well as the Dane, goals came from Eidur, Jimmy and of course Gianfranco – scoring with a peach of a goal, flicking a right foot lob over Everton goalkeeper Richard Wright to seal the victory with moments to go.

TAKE A BROLLY

The unheralded Mike Brolly scored his only goal in Chelsea Blue on this day in 1973. Brolly, a Scottish winger, and youth team product who went on to make only 9 appearances for Chelsea before being sold to Bristol City joined John Hollins on the score sheet in a 2-1 Division One victory over Southampton at the Bridge.

Brolly would also go on to play for Grimsby, Derby County and Scunthorpe before winding down his career in non-league in the late 1980s.

CHIVERS DEBUT

21 April 1979 was the first time that defender Gary Chivers pulled on a Chelsea shirt. The youngster was given a chance in the Chelsea back-line as soon as relegation from Division One was secured, and made his debut in a 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough. Gary went on to play 143 time for the Blues before moving on a free transfer to Swansea City. He is now heavily involved with the Chelsea Old Boys FC, who’s website can be found at www.chelseaoldboys.co.uk.

GOONERS THRASHED

Here’s one to pass on to your North London Friends. Friday 21 April 1916 and Chelsea entertain Arsenal in a London Combination Fixture (the first team league that ran throughout the “Great War”). Entertaining it was as a crowd of 26,000 saw 5 goals from Bob Thompson and 4 from Charlie Buchan see the Blues to a 9-0 humiliation of the Gooners.

Daily Dose: 22 April 2006

MARIO’S DEBUT

The last Chelsea side to turn out on the 22nd April was one in which defender Mario Melchiot was finally making his debut in the year 2000. Mario had been signed from Ajax in the previous close season, but an early injury had prevented him from making a first team impact until now. Mario went on to play 149 times for the Blues, scoring 5 goals before his sale to Birmingham City at the conclusion of the 2003/04 season. Mario and his new team mates drew this game 1-1 through a goal from Gus Poyet.  

CUP WINNERS CUP DEFENCE ENDED

Chelsea’s defence of the European Cup Winners Cup came to an end on this night in 1999. Having drawn the first leg 1-1, a narrow 1-0 defeat saw them going out to Real Mallorca 2-1 on aggregate. Chelsea were to have the bulk of possession, but chances for Di Matteo (post), Flo & Wise (missed) were spurned and the Blues were out.  

CHAMPIONS!

1989 and 30,337 are in attendance at the Bridge, as for the second time in six years, victory over Leeds United secures promotion from Division Two for Chelsea and an immediate return to the top flight. John Bumstead, who also scored in the reverse fixture at Elland Road (the only goals he bagged all season), scores the winner, and this coupled with results elsewhere not only sends us up, but secures the Second Division Championship. The fans had been right all season, we were “The Boys in Blue, in Division Two” and they’d correctly forecasted that “We wont be there for long”!

NEWCASTLE WALLOPED

April 22 1957 and Chelsea put six past Newcastle in a Division One fixture at the Bridge. Goals came courtesy of a brace from each of Peter Brabrook and Jim Lewis whilst Les Stubbs and Ron Tindall got the others in a 6-2 Victory. 20,975 fans look on.

Daily Dose: 23 April 2006

NEARLY THERE

3-1 victory over neighbours Fulham (our third victory over them that season) on 23 April 2006 meant that Chelsea were within just one win of the League title. Joe Cole scored a typically beautiful goal to get us off the mark on 17 minutes, but our nerves resurfaced (following a couple of draws at the Bridge) when Collins John equalised for Fulham five minutes before the interval. Half time saw makeshift left back Robert Huth replaced by makeshift left back Damien Duff, with Jiri Jarosik filling in in midfield. It was Damien who got the move underway that would see us re-take the lead just past the hour mark; his pass to Robben who turned the ball across the face of goal for the onrushing Lampard. Relief swept through the Bridge as our title charge got back on track, and it was reflected in the confident play that brought a third goal from Eidur.

MARCEL’S LOOSE ELBOW

Two years ago today and UEFA find Marcel Desailly guilty of an elbow on Fernando Morientes in the Champions League Semi Final. His ban is initially three games, but reduced to two on later appeal and means that he will miss the Semi Final Second Leg against Monaco.

SEMI FINAL DEFEAT (AGAIN!)

1966 and for the second season in a row the Blues are in FA Cup Semi Final action at Villa Park. Just as was the case a year previously, Chelsea go down by two goals to nil, this time Sheffield Wednesday the victors.

PERRY REMEMBERS – CROSS CHANNEL TROPHY

Dan’s Daily Dose is indebted for the following reminder of good times from correspondent Perry Gascoigne: I know that the 23 April is significant for us winning our first Championship but it is also significant for my first European away game with Chelsea. That was the day that we won the prestigious (?) Cross Channel Trophy by beating Le Harve on away goals. If my memory serves me right it was in 1993 and a Frank Sinclair header sealed the win. Boy that was a good day.

CHAMPIONS!!!

51,421 are at the Bridge on this day in 1955 to witness a 3-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday which guaranteed the clubs first title success. Goals from Peter Sillett, and two from Eric Parsons ensuring a champagne celebration at the Bridge.

Scott Cheshire recalls *”Sixteen heroes had borne the brunt of the season. Bill Robertson and Charlie Thomson shared the goalkeeping duties. John Harris, now reaching the end of his long and distinguished career here, occupied the full back positions with Peter Sillett and Stan Willemse. Stan Wicks, from Reading, took over Ron Greenwood’s place at centre-half at Christmas, and Ken Armstrong and Derek Saunders were wonderfully consistent wing halves.

Roy Bentley led the forward line with his usual devastating effect and inside right Johnny McNichol scored many important goals. Les Stubbs and O’Connell the remarkable amateur from Bishops Auckland with seven goals from 10 games shared the inside-left position. Eric Parsons, affectionately known as “The Rabbit”, had his best ever season on the right wing where his speed contrasted with the more intricate skills of Frank Blunstone, or Jim Lewis, another amateur, on the left”

TOTTENHAM WIN AT THE BRIDGE???

A rare victory for Spurs at Stamford Bridge as they beat Wolves 1-0 to win the 1921 FA Cup Final in front of a crowd of 72,805

* “Chelsea Football Club – The Full Statistical Story 1905-1988″ by Scott Cheshire and Ron Hockings. ISBN 0-9511640-1-5

Daily Dose: 24 April 2006  

BUT FIRST THE GOOD NEWS

It was a year ago today that John Terry became PFA player of the year, pushing team mate Frank Lampard into Second Place. JT was the first defender to win the award since Paul McGrath (12 years previously) and became the first Chelsea player ever to take the title, as voted for by his fellow professionals. Petr Cech, Arjen Robben, and Shaun Wright-Phillips (then at Man City) joined JT in the PFA Premiership team of the season.

RARE LOSS AT OLD TRAFFORD

Chelsea’s last game on this date came on Easter Monday, 2000 when despite goals from Dan Petrescu and Gianfranco Zola, the Blues suffered a rare 3-2 reverse to Manchester United in a Premiership fixture. Ed De Goey will be particularly unhappy to be reminded of this game as his mistakes gifted United their first two goals.

THRASHED AT TURF MOOR

A rare goal from Chopper Harris (one of only 14 in his 19 seasons in the Chelsea first team) and another from the late Peter Houseman were not enough to gain any satisfaction in a 6-2 Division One defeat at Burnley on this day in 1965.

VILLA WIN CUP AT STAMFORD BRIDGE

Aston Villa win the first of three FA Cup Finals to be held at the Bridge with an extra-time goal from Kirton securing the 1920 Trophy in a 1-0 victory over Huddersfield Town. A crowd of 50,018 watched on.

KHAKI CUP FINAL

In the “Khaki Cup Final” of 1914 (so called because of the number of World War I serviceman in the crowd of 49,557) Chelsea go down 3-0 to Sheffield United. This was the first time that Chelsea reached a Final and the defeat ensured that it would take another 41 years for the first significant silverware to grace the Chelsea Trophy Cabinet.

Daily Dose: 25 April 2006

SAMSUNG BLUE

Monday 25 April 2006 and after much speculation, Samsung Electronics and Chelsea announce a £50 million kit sponsorship deal – said at the time to be the largest in English football: Samsung join the following role of honour of CFC sponsors (email me if I’ve missed any!)

• Emirates
• Airlines
• Autoglass
• Coors
• Commodore (sometimes with “Commodore” on the shirts, sometimes with “Amiga”)
• Bai Lin Tea (“the weight conscious cuppa”)
• Grange Farms
• Gulf Air

DEFEAT IN GEORDIE LAND

The last Chelsea side to play a game on this day were to come home from St. James’s Park empty handed following a 2-1 Premier League defeat by Newcastle in 2004. Things could (should) have been different if Big JT’s last minute effort hadn’t crashed against the post but it wasn’t to be Chelsea’s day. In a measure of his declining influence Marcel Desailly, who’d been given a torrid time by Shearer and Amoebi was substituted in place of Shearers “friend” Robert Huth, who proceeded to introduce his studs to the Geordie Captains knackers (but escaped a later disciplinary hearing without a ban)! Joe Cole had given Chelsea the lead before an equaliser from Amoebi and a 35 yarder from Shearer had handed the game to our opponents.

SCOUSERS STUFFED BY CLARKEY

1998 and a sell out crowd of over 36,000 witness an impressive 4-1 victory over Liverpool in a Premier League game at the Bridge. Current Assistant Manager Steve Clarke with a rare goal scores the first, Mark Hughes adds two more and Tore Andre Flo rounds off a resounding victory.

SMALL CROWD FOR SIGNIFICANT WIN

Way back when now, and a crowd of only 7,000 is in attendance at Barnsley’s Oakwell for a Division Two fixture in 1912. The Blues come away with both points, goals from Bob Whittingham and Charlie Freeman securing a 2-0 Victory as the visitors continue their push for Promotion.

Daily Dose: 26 April 2006

FOCUS TURNS TO EUROPE

With Arsenal failing to lose their game on the preivous day a year ago, our wait for the title would go on just a little longer. In the meantime, our European adventure was gearing up for it’s next stage and the visit of Liverpool for the Semi Final first leg the next day. In the pre-match press Conference, Jose stated that he saw this very much as a competition over 180 minutes and urged his players not to panic should they not win the first leg.

FULHAM DRAW

“An absolutely dire performance” wrote Graham Parley in his match report for CFCnet following our most recent match on this day, 2003′s 1-1 Premiership draw with neighbours Fulham. Gianfranco scored our goal (with a little help from Fulham’s Alain Goma) from a free kick, with Louis Boa Morte scoring an equaliser for the Cottagers.

YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Scott Parker picked up the PFA “Players Young Player of the Year” award on this night two years ago. The award is arguably based more on his performances in a Charlton shirt following an inconsistent start to his Stamford Bridge Career. It is the first time in Chelsea’s history that a current player had picked up one of these awards.

YOUTH CUP FINAL

Chelsea’s youth team draw 1-1 in the first leg of their first FA Youth Cup final on this day in 1960. Bert Murray scores Chelsea’s goal.

WAR CUP LIFTED

1919 and Chelsea win the London Victory War Cup with a 3-0 victory over Fulham at Highbury, Harry Wilding (2) & Jock Rutherford scoring the goals.

FIRST EVER SIGNING

The newly founded blues make their first signing Bob Roberts, a centre-forward who would later convert to centre back, and inside-forward James Robertson coming from Small Heath for a combined fee of £150 on this day in 1905

Dan Davies jogs memories once again as he looks back to events on April 14 in years gone past:

PLAYERS SHORT LISTED

14 April 2006 and recognition for our amazing season continues with the nominations for the PFA Player & Young Player of the Year Awards. In the senior category, Chelsea players make up half the shortlist; Cech, Terry & Lampard being joined by Steven Gerrard, Thierry Henry and Crystal Palace striker Andy Johnson, whilst Arjen Robben is nominated for the Young Player award. Captain Fantastic was to go on to win this prestigious award.

BIRMINGHAM? WHY ?!

2002 saw Chelsea in FA Cup Semi Final action against Fulham, (ludicrously) at Villa Park, Birmingham. 36,147 attended (Highbury holds 38,000). A headband wearing John Terry (looking reminiscent of Brighton’s Steve Foster) scored the games only goal to take us through to a final against Arsenal at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium.

ALL BRITISH CUP WINNERS CUP SEMI

Chelsea meet holders Manchester City in the first leg of the 1970/71 European Cup Winners Cup Semi Final in front of 45,595 at Stamford Bridge. Stand in ‘Keeper John Phillips keeps a clean sheet and Derek Smethurst’s goal secures a 1-0 victory for the home side.

CHAMPIONS THRASH TOFFEEMEN

One of the few highlights in Chelsea’s attempt to defend their first league title (we were to end the season in 16th position) came on this day in 1956. Roy Bentley scored a hat-trick, Les Stubbs grabbed two, and Jim Lewis the other in a 6-1 victory over Everton.

LEEDS DEFEATED AGAIN

Yesterday we looked back on Leeds United’s suffering at the hands of Mark Hughes, today we remember another victory, this time over Leeds City. Just as was the case in 1996, the 1911 vintage were to go down by four goals to one, with Angus Douglas, Bob Whittingham, William Bridgeman and Vivian Woodward bagging a goal a piece.

Daily Dose: 15 April 2006

Looking back through history with Dan Davies as we remember perhaps the darkest day in English Football History:

THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM

15 April 2005, and Chelsea are closing in on the title and looking forward to a Champions League Semi Final (for the second season in comparison). However, with no league game this weekend for any of the top 4, thanks to the FA Cup Semi Finals, the players are resting ready for the final push.

RESULT INSIGNIFICANT

Chelsea’s 27 game unbeaten run comes to an end on this day in 1989 with a 2-0 defeat at Filbert Street, Leicester. However the result is put into perspective by the dreadful events at Hillsborough as 96 lose their lives at the FA Cup Semi-Final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.

SAVE THE BRIDGE

£15 million is the seemingly impossible target as the “Save the Bridge” appeal is launched in 1987. These day’s – far from purchasing the ground, you’d be lucky to buy a lanky strikers left boot for that amount!

FIRST CUP FINAL

Chelsea lost their first Wembley Cup Final on this day in 1944 with a 1-3 defeat by Charlton in the Football League (South) Cup. The Blues goal is scored from a Payne Penalty – 85,000 watch on.

EX PLAYER, EX-MANAGER (1)

Ken Shellito, who was to go on to manager the Blues made his first team debut on this day in 1959, appearing as Right Back in a 3-1 Division One victory at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground. Chelsea goals come from Jimmy Greaves, Les Allen and Peter Brabrook.

EX PLAYER, EX-MANAGER (2)

Eddie McCreadie, former player and manager is born in Glasgow on this day in 1940. Happy Birthday Eddie!

Daily Dose: 16 April 2006

Today we look back on rewards for our players, good times at the Bridge, bad times at Highbury and a very busy Easter 1967 period:

PLAYERS ACHIEVEMENTS RECOGNISED

Amongst the nominees for named on this day for the “2003/04 Player of the Year” is Chelsea’s Frank Lampard, whilst the Young Player of the Year nominations include Glenn Johnson, Scott Parker & John Terry. Parker would go on and win the Young Players award, whilst Frank Lampard has to settle for second behind Thierry Henry in the senior category.

TWO DEBUTS

A three nil defeat of Crystal Palace on 16 April 1990 marks the first team Debut of both Bobby Stewart and Damien Matthew. Bobby’s career is winding down at Norwich City, whilst Damien has returned to his first club and is working within the Blues Youth Academy. The goals way back then came from debutant Stewart, as well as one each for Kerry Dixon and Kevin Wilson.

HEAVY DEFEAT AT HIGHBURY

On our way to relegation from Division one in 1979, Danny Blanchflower’s side go down to a 5-2 defeat to Arsenal at Highbury. Goals from Tommy Langley and Clive Walker never look enough in a season when the Blues were to finish bottom with only 20 points from 42 games.

BIG CROWD, BIG WIN

1965 and 62,587 pack into the Bridge to see two goals from Bert Murray and one a piece for Marvin Hinton and Bobby Tambling help Chelsea to a 4-0 Division One defeat of Liverpool. With the games coming thick and fast, the Blues follow this Good Friday fixture with a 2-2 draw at home to West Brom the following day, and travel up to Anfield for a 2-0 defeat on Easter Monday. Only 13 players are used in this four day period. Can’t see many modern day managers standing for that!

Daily Dose: 17 April 2006

Dan Davies takes us back through time and examines the ultimately disappointing end to the 2003/04 season,, a run-of the mill victory over Tottenham and some heavy defeats:

SECOND CONSECUTIVE GOALLESS DRAW

This day two years ago sees Chelsea suffering from a second successive 0-0 score-line at the Bridge as any hope of us challenging for the title fades further. 41,169 turn up at the Bridge in hope of more but despite Frank Lampard hitting the post twice, the Blues were once again to fail to take the points as Everton travel north having maintained parity. 

ANOTHER GAME, ANOTHER WIN

Once again we can look back through history and see that today marks the anniversary of another victory over Spurs. This time the year is 2001, the venue is White Hart Lane and the Result is 3-0 as Chelsea make it 24 games against Tottenham without defeat. Goals come from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, heading home from a Dennis Wise corner, and second half goals from Gus Poyet and Eidur Gudjohnsen after William Korsten had been sent off for our unfortunate (!) opponents.

BIG DEFEAT AT OLD TRAFFORD

This day in 1948 sees the Blues shipping in 5 in a rare defeat at Old Trafford. Manchester United were to end the season as title runners up (to Arsenal) whilst only a point separated 18th placed Chelsea from relegation.

SPARSE CROWD & SPARSE ENTERTAINMENT

17 April 1929 and little more than 7,000 are at the Bridge to see the Blues go down 5-2 to West Bromwich Albion in a Division Two Fixture. Leslie O’Dell and Sidney Elliot scoring the goals for manager David Calderhead’s side.

Daily Dose: 18 April 2006

The diary today looks back on a memorable near miss in Spain, a memorable near miss at the Bridge, and finally at a day when it all went right:

CHANCE MEETING

Sunday newspaper speculation the previous day led Chelsea to issue a statement denying (thank god!) any interest in signing Rio Ferdinand a year ago today.   Peter Kenyon had bumped into Rio at a London restaurant, an encounter witnessed by the ‘red tops’ and in the midst of the Ashley Cole tapping up controversy, this was mannah from heaven for Fleet Street’s finest. 

SEVEN MINUTES AWAY

After our 3-1 victory at home, Chelsea fan’s of the 2000 vintage travelled to Barcelona’s Nou Camp Stadium in good heart in a Champions League Quarter Final.

The Catalan side took the lead with their first shot on target after 20 minutes, and their second accurate shot brought a second goal just on half time, but Tore Andre Flo put the tie back in Chelsea’s favour as he capitalised on a misplaced clearance by the Barcelona goalie on the hour mark. Chelsea held on magnificently until a Dani goal on 83 minutes squared the tie. More drama came in the final minute when Rivaldo put a penalty the wrong side of Ed De Goey’s post. Extra time and another penalty for Barcelona, this time scored by the Brazilian, and with Baba sent off, a Dani goal securing the tie for our opponents. Oh, and the referee – Anders Frisk(!)

TITLE HOPES FADE

18 April 1999. Chelsea 2-0 up against Leicester through Gianfranco Zola and Dan Petrescu. Only 10 minutes to go and we are looking likely to close the gap on leaders Manchester United to only one point with 5 games remaining. Suddenly it all changes and our title dreams fade when a Duberry own goal and a Steve Guppy curler deprive us of two vital points.

FIVE PAST PRESTON

1936 and Chelsea stroll to a 5-2 Division One victory over Preston North End at the Bridge. Dick Spence scores a hat-trick and is backed up with goals from Harry Burgess and Eric Oakton.

HELP DAN

Remember, you can help Dan to make his “Daily Dose” continued essential reading. If you have any historical nuggets, useful website links or simply would like to tell me about a game that holds special memories for you, then please let me know by emailing me here.

END OF AN ERA

This day in 2006 sees Chelsea come to an agreement with Ken Bates to settle the litigation he issued against the club following on from Roman’s takeover. With Ken “paid off” he became free to transfer his love to Elland Road and his association with Stamford Bridge ended after 23 years and 12 days.

FRANCO TAKES US TO WEMBLEY

Any true supporter will be able to conjure up an exact mental picture of one moment from today in 1997. Chelsea, in their yellow away kit attacking the North Bank at Highbury in the FA Cup Semi Final. The maestro, Gianfranco Zola twisting the Wimbledon defence inside and out before unleashing an unstoppable shot. Zola wheeling away, arms outstretched as we celebrated. Mark Hughes scored two goals that sandwiched ‘Franco’s as Chelsea go through to a final against Middlesborough.

LEEDS WALLOPED BY SPARKIE

Glenn Hoddle’s side stroll to a 4-1 victory over Leeds in 1996 with a Mark Hughes hat-trick and one from John Spencer sealing a Premiership success over the Yorkshiremen in front of 21,131 at Stamford Bridge.

CUP FINAL REVENGE

Chelsea gained a measure of revenge over Tottenham on this day in 1968. Defeated by Spurs in the previous seasons Cup Final, goals from Peter Houseman and Tommy Baldwin see the Blues to a 2-0 victory at The Bridge. 53,049 look on.

RECORD CROWD

A then record crowd of 67,000 see the blues draw one all against Manchester United in their inaugural 1905/06 season.

HELP DAN

Remember, you can help Dan to make his “Daily Dose” continued essential reading. If you have any historical nuggets, useful website links or simply would like to tell me about a game that holds special memories for you, then please let me know by emailing me here.

INTO THE SEMI’S

A 3-2 defeat by Bayern Munich in Germany on this day in 2006 is not enough to prevent our progress to a second Champions League Semi Final in two years. The score-line really doesn’t reflect the game as despite going behind goals from Frank Lampard and an excellent Didier Drogba header gave us a 6-3 aggregate lead before Chelsea relaxed and let Bayern back in with goals in the 89th and 93rd minutes.

UNSUCCESSFUL TINKERING

Two years ago today and a Chelsea side showing 8 changes from the goalless draw against Middlesbrough two days earlier goes down to an Easter Monday defeat at Villa Park. Despite two Crespo goals, Chelsea go down to a 3-2 defeat. The contrast between Claudio’s blues and Mourinho’s masters couldn’t have been more marked.

MAGIC GUS TAKES US TO ANOTHER CUP FINAL.

Another Semi-Final for Chelsea, this time in the FA Cup against Newcastle. 73,876 watched the game on 12 April 2000 at Wembley Stadium and saw the Blues progress to the Final for the second time in three years through two Gus Poyet goals, the second a trademark header. Rob Lee grabbed a consolation for the Geordies . Chelsea were to go on to face and beat Aston Villa at the last FA Cup Final to be played at the Twin Towers.

GOOD FRIDAY

1963 and a surprisingly healthy crowd of more than 45,000 largely go home happy after the Blues beat Bury 2-0 in a Division Two fixture. Goals from Barry Bridges and Bobby Tambling see the blues to victory as the season heads towards Promotion back to Division One.

KEZMAN’S CANDLES

Former Chelsea Striker Mateja Kezman celebrates his birthday today, being born in Zemun, Serbia & Montenegro on 12 April 1979. Kezman was purchased from PSV Eindhoven to team up again with Arjen Robben, but ‘Batman’ never really found his feet in English football, and despite some above average support from the Stamford Bridge faithful departed for Athletico Madrid at the end of his only season (2004/05) having scored 7 goals in 40 appearances. Perhaps the highlight of his time came when his extra time goal helped secure the Carling Cup in the 3-1 victory over Liverpool at Cardiff earlier that season.

HELP DAN

Remember, you can help Dan to make his “Daily Dose” continued essential reading. If you have any historical nuggets, useful website links or simply would like to tell me about a game that holds special memories for you, then please let me know by emailing me here

BLUES IN GERMANY

Three years ago today and Chelsea were in Munich, preparing for the second leg of their European Cup Winners Cup Quarter Final tie against Bayern.  The main concern in the camp was a “fever” that had stopped Mateja Kezman from training and seen the likely promotion of Mikael Forssell to the substitutes bench.

VICTORY OVER THE WOMBLES.

Our most recent game on this day is the 2-1 defeat of Wimbledon in a Premiership fixture at Selhurst Park in 1999. Chelsea, on their way to third place kept within two points of the leaders after Flo, combining well with Bjarne Goldbaek scored the first, and Poyet, fed by Zola made it two nil. A last minute goal caused some consternation but the Blues held on to keep the pressure on the top two up, and send the majority of the 21,577 crowd home happy.

ANOTHER RUN OF THE MILL VICTORY OVER SPURS

A year previous to the victory over Wimbledon sees Tottenham travel to the Bridge in hope of putting a stop to what was already an long run of poor results against Chelsea. However, as was the case in many games before and since, they return to North London pointless after goals from Flo and Vialli sees the ‘Blues to a comfortable 2-0 Premiership victory.

RARE DEFEAT IN PROMOTION SEASON.

11 April 1977 and the Blues, riding high in Division 2 make the short trip to the Valley for a derby match against Charlton. Charlton were mid-table and not expected to be too much of a hindrance to our promotion charge, but alas it was not to be as Blues ‘keeper John Phillips picked the ball out of his net four times in a comprehensive 4-0 defeat. The set-back however was not to be too significant as Chelsea ended the 1976/77 season in second place winning promotion back to Division One.

SANDY WEMBLEY

With the season ending early to allow preparations for the Mexico World Cup, Chelsea face Leeds United on a sandy Wembley (thanks to the previous weeks “Horse of the Year” Show) in the 1970 FA Cup Final. Two equalisers, the first from Peter Houseman and a late goal from Ian Hutchinson take the game to a replay.

HELP DAN

Remember, you can help Dan to make his “Daily Dose” continued essential reading. If you have any historical nuggets, useful website links or simply would like to tell me about a game that holds special memories for you, then please let me know by emailing me here.

Daily Dose: 9 April

Today’s daily dose of historical trivia as Dan Davies looks back to some memorable semi-finals and other significant victories “on this day in history”:

DISAPPOINTING DRAW

Chelsea’s seemingly inexorable march towards our first title in 50 long seasons stalled slightly three years ago, when against expectations Birmingham City came away from Stamford Bridge with a point (the first point they had gained ‘on the road’ in 2006).   We’d looked likely to lose more than a point when Walter Pandiani gave the visitors a 64th minute lead, but Didier Drogba, nine yards out with nine minutes to go, got onto the end of a Frank Lampard through ball to grab an equaliser.  

THE END OF PETIT

An operation on his injured ankle this time in 2004 rules Emmanuel Petit out for the rest of the season. He will never play for the Blues again.

WEMBLEY SEMI FINAL (1)

9 April 2000 sees Chelsea at Wembley for an FA Cup Semi Final against Newcastle. On their way to winning the title, a brace for Gustavo Poyet is enough to beat the Geordies 2-1 in front of nearly 74,000 spectators.

EURO SEMI FINAL

On this day in 1999, Chelsea found themselves through to the Semi-Final of the European Cup-Winners Cup for the second time in consecutive seasons. A close range volley from Tore Andre Flo equalised what was to prove to be an important away goal from Dani, but the Blues were unable score in Spain and so failed to reach the final.

WEMBLEY SEMI FINAL (2)

1994, and on a sunny Sunday at Wembley Stadium, two goals from Gavin Peacock see Chelsea through to their first FA Cup Final in 24 years. 59,989 attend and perhaps the biggest cheer of the day goes to former hero Kerry Dixon, who plays for our opponents – Luton Town.

WEST HAM MAY HAVE WON THE WORLD CUP …

… But they couldn’t match us! 1966 and the International Packed West Ham are sent packing 6-2 in a Division One match at Stamford Bridge. George Graham and Bobby Tambling get two a piece whilst Ron Harris and Terry Venables grab the others, just short of 36,000 watch on.

WEBBIES BIRTHDAY

Happy Birthday today to Cup Hero and former Manager David Webb, born on this day in 1946 in Stratford, East London. Chelsea were the fourth club to get the benefit of Webb’s abilities and physique, Stratford born Webb originally signing for his local club West Ham on Amateur terms, and serving Leyton Orient before his £40,000 transfer from Southampton in February 1968.  David Webb came one game shy of 300 appearances in 6 years at the Bridge, and his FA Cup winning goal in the 1970 replay was one of 33 he notched in a Chelsea shirt.  May 1974 saw him take the short trip to Loftus Road, and after serving QPR he had spells with Leicester, Derby and Bournemouth where in 1979 his managerial career began promisingly with promotion in his first season as player-manager.   Webb returned to Stamford Bridge in 1993 as caretaker manager, and steered us safely away from relegation following on from the debacle left by outgoing coach Ian Porterfield.  Despite winning 5 of his 13 games in charge, Glenn Hoddle replaced him as Chelsea manager the following season, and the ‘new’ Chelsea was born.

Daily Dose: 10 April

EDGING CLOSER

Despite an Arsenal win three years ago today, our 11 point lead meant that if we could beat the Gunners in our next league fixture, we’d still be on target to claim the title with a win against Fulham, on April 23rd, 50 years to the day since we won our previous title.  Expectation was beginning to reach crippling levels.

BORO BORE DRAW

Four years ago today, and a goalless draw at home to Middlesbrough sees manager Claudio Ranieri conceding the title to Arsenal; “I said Arsenal could only lose the title but after the Liverpool match I say well done, they are the champions”.

ANOTHER NIL NIL

Came in 2002 when the result perhaps reflected the proximity of the upcoming FA Cup Semi Final v Fulham. 

THE WIDE OPEN SPACES OF SELHURST PARK

1995 and only 7,022 fans are in attendance to see Chelsea draw 1-1 with Wimbledon during their tenancy of Selhurst Park. Frank Sinclair bags the goal for the Blues.

DROY JOY IN DERBY VICTORY

Big & bearded Mickey Droy scores one of his 13 League goals in his 14 seasons at the Bridge in a 2-1 victory over Queens Park Rangers at the Bridge. Colin Lee grabs the other.

HELP DAN

Remember, you can help Dan to make his “Daily Dose” continued essential reading. If you have any historical nuggets, useful website links or simply would like to tell me about a game that holds special memories for you, then please let me know by emailing me here.

JOE COLE, PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Three years ago yesterday saw JT grabbing PFA player of the month accolade, whilst four years ago days ago today it was Joe Cole picking up an equivalent award, this time from Premiership sponsors Barclays. Two goals in three games (all won) gave him the award, again following in the footsteps of two team-mates already to have won the award on this all conquering season (following on from Arjen and JT).

DIRTY LEEDS DEFEAT US

You have to go back to 1998 for the last time Chelsea played on 8 April. The Blues go down 3-1 to Leeds United at Elland Road in a Premiership Fixture. French centre back Laurent Charvet scored the second of his two Chelsea goals to give the blues a consolation.

BAGGIES BEATEN IN PROMOTION SIX POINTER

1989 and with both sides pushing for Promotion, Chelsea’s 3-2 victory at the Hawthorns is a significant step back to Division One. Captain Graham Roberts, David Lee & Kevin McAllister score the important goals in front of a crowd of 22,858. All the goals came in the first half.

QUARTER FINAL VICTORY.

On their way to the (ultimately unsuccessful) 1967 FA Cup Final, the Blues face Sheffield Wednesday in a 6th round tie. 52,481 are in attendance at the Bridge to see a late winner from Tommy Baldwin send Docherty’s Diamonds on to the semi-final with a 1-0 victory.

DIRTY LEEDS THRASHED

Saturday 8 April 1933 and a Division One clash at the Bridge sees Chelsea send Leeds home with their tails between their legs after a 6-0 victory watched by 31,905. Goals came from George Gibson who got two, supported by singles from Eric Oakton, George Mills, Hughie Gallagher and Stanley Prout.

HELP DAN

Remember, you can help Dan to make his “Daily Dose” continued essential reading. If you have any historical nuggets, useful website links or simply would like to tell me about a game that holds special memories for you, then please let me know by emailing me here.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PREPARATION

Three years ago today, with the team preparing for the Champions League Quarter Final first leg at home to Bayern Munich, manager Jose Mourinho chooses the eve of game press conference to announce that striker Mikael Forssell will start the game on the bench, ending seven months of injury misery and the premature ending of his loan period with Birmingham. With Kezman suspended and Robben injured, attacking options were limited, so the 24 year old Finn was to make an unexpected return to Stamford Bridge action and begin what was to be a final 3 months as a Chelsea player.

STADIUM OF LIGHT SUCCESS

2003 and the last match played on this date sees goals from ‘Franco Zola & substitute Carlton Cole give us a 2-1 Premier League victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Sunderland were to finish bottom, with a record Premiership low total of 19 points. Claudio Ranieri’s team went on to finish 4th.

BARCELONA BEATEN

A great performance from the Blues on this day in 2000 when goals from a ‘Franco free-kick and two from Tore Andre Flo put Chelsea 3-0 up against the Catalans. Alas Figo managed to get an away goal that would ultimately become significant in the second leg of this Champions League Quarter Final.

FIRST LEAGUE CUP VICTORY

A goalless draw in the second leg of the League Cup Final of 1964 is enough to see the Blues parading the trophy in front of the fans at Leicester’s Filbert Street, following on from the narrow 3-2 victory at Stamford Bridge in the first instalment.

SEMI FINAL DRAWN

5 April 1952 and for the second time in three seasons the Blues face Arsenal in a FA Cup Semi Final. As previously the game is played at White Hart Lane, as previously it ends in a draw (Billy Gray scoring for Chelsea) and as previously we were come second best when the teams met again two days later.

THE BRIDGE HOSTS ITS FIRST INTERNATIONAL

1915 sees the first of three international matches to be staged at Stamford Bridge. 52,000 fans see England beat Scotland 1-0 to win the British Championship.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERLAND

Former Blues defender Erland Johnsen was born on this day in 1967. The popular Norweigan went on to play for the blues 182 times and was an important part in our Cup Successes of the 1990′s.

Daily Dose: 6 April

Another look back through history with Dan Davies with the Champions League Quarter finals providing recent memories:

REMEMBER THE WOOLLY HAT?

Three years ago, and it was Champions League Quarter Final First leg time, with German powerhouses Bayern Munich visiting SW6. Chelsea took less than 200 seconds to take the lead, with Joe Cole converting a Damien Duff cross with a little help from a deflection from Lucio, Bayern’s Brazilian defender. No further goals came before the interval, and our opponents pulled level early in the second period with Sebastian Schweinsteiger following in to knock home a rebound from a Ze Roberto shot. Parity lasted only six minutes before Frank Lampard brought us back in front, volleying home from the edge of the box. If Lampard’s first volley was spectacular, his second was sublime as he extended our lead to 3-1 when he swivelled to knock home his own chest down of a Makelele through ball in text book fashion. The tie appeared safe when Drogba made it four one before a very late and extremely dubious penalty, won & scored by Michael Ballack gave our visitors a little hope for the second leg, in which as for this game, Jose Mourinho would be serving a touchline ban, which he was attempting to circumvent by high tech methods, including seeming to relay messages to coach Rui Faria, who was wearing a ‘suspicious’ woolly hat whilst sitting on the bench.

WAYNE BRIDGE, SCORED A ****ING GREAT GOAL

A night of high passion in the Champions League Quarter Final Second Leg at Arsenal’s Highbury Stadium. Chelsea are definite underdogs having drawn the first leg 1-1 and having failed to beat the Gooners in 17 previous attempts. The home side took the lead in first half stoppage time when Ambrosio failed to deal with a Lauren cross and allowing Reyes to stab home, but in a dramatic second half, Frank Lampard tucked home the rebound from an accurate(!) Claude Makelele shot and with 3 minutes to go Left Back Bridge brought the ball forward down the left wing, played a lovely 1-2 with Eidur, and sent the Blues into raptures with a well placed shot past Lehman to win the tie.

SEMI FINAL DEFEAT

Today in 1995 sees a Gus Poyet Inspired Real Zaragoza beat us 3-1 in a European Cup Winners Cup Semi-Final first leg in front of 35,000 at La Romareda. Despite a heroic fight back in the second leg, Chelsea go out. It’s not all doom & gloom however, for the result does pave the way for the glorious #”Nayim, from the Half Way Line” goal that beats Arsenal in the Final.

TOPSY TURVY DRAW

1991 and a first division fixture against Luton. Chelsea go 3-0 down to the visitors in short time, before coming back through goals from Le Saux, Stuart & Wise. Victory is denied when Le Saux is sent off. Frank Sinclair makes his first team debut for the Blues.

THE END OF AN ERA

1933 and Chelsea’s longest serving Manager signs off. In David Calderhead’s final game before retirement, Chelsea draw 1-1 with Sunderland, the point ensuring that Chelsea narrowly avoid relegation. 

Daily Dose: 7 April

JT IS PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Three ago today, and John Terry is named PFA player of the month, becoming the third Chelsea player (after Robben in November and Lampard in January) to win the award, voted for by fans visiting the PFA website. Chelsea had gone undefeated through March and our captains fine month was of course topped off when he struck the decisive goal in the 4-2 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League fixture at Stamford Bridge.

DEMOLITION DERBY (1)

The last time that we played on this date saw 4 second half goals demolish Derby County in a Premiership match at Pride Park. Gianfranco got the first, before a lob from Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink doubled our advantage with 5 minutes to go. Gus Poyet grabbed the last two, the first from a corner and the second a trademark header to seal a comprehensive victory on this day in 2001.

DEMOLITION DERBY (2)

A different kind of derby, but the same outcome. 1984 and a Second division clash with Fulham at the Bridge. Chelsea on their way to the championship put four without reply past our neighbours in front of nearly 32,000 fans. Victory is achieved through a brace for Kerry Dixon, supported by goals from Pat Nevin & David Speedie.

FA CUP SEMI FINAL HEARTACHE

1952 and a mere two days after a 1-1 draw with Arsenal, the Blues are again at White Hart Lane and facing the Gooners. Alas the blues come second best and fail to make the final, with a crowd of 57,450 witnessing the 3-0 reverse.

WARTIME WEMBLEY TROPHY

Today in 1945 sees Chelsea in Football League South Cup Final action for the second time in two years. Goals from George Wardle and John McDonald see Chelsea climbing the 39 steps and lifting a trophy for the first time after a 2-0 victory over Millwall in front of 95,000 spectators.