Sport

Ancelotti has licence to spend some money

July 29, 2010 Edition 2

LONDON: English champions Chelsea have assured manager Carlo Ancelotti that the answer will be "yes" if he asks for funds to bolster his squad.

Ancelotti has so far made just one major summer signing with the acquisition of Yossi Benayoun from Premier League rivals Liverpool for £5million.

The Israel captain's pre-season progress has been hampered by a slight groin problem, but he is expected to be included in the squad for the forthcoming tour of Germany.

The Stamford Bridge club have lost defender Alex and goalkeeper Petr Cech through injury, and chief executive Ron Gourlay has confirmed that money will be made available to Ancelotti to buy players.

"If Carlo wants to bring a player or two into the squad, then we will look at that," Gourlay said yesterday. "It has to be the right player to fit into the squad and, obviously, at the right price. If these things all come together, then fine, we'll strengthen the squad. But only if Carlo feels it's necessary."

Gourlay also made it clear that prolific striker Didier Drogba, who had reported to the club's training ground yesterday following groin surgery, was not for sale.

The Ivory Coast stalwart had been linked with a move to Manchester City by his agent, but Gourlay said: "Didier will be a Chelsea player next year. Didier is under contract."

He added: "The thing about this time of year is that we always get (rumours about player movements). It's normal for our players to be in the news.

"But Didier Drogba will be a Chelsea player next year."

Portugal midfielder Deco's future also continues to be the subject of speculation, with Rio de Janeiro club Fluminese rumoured to be ready to sign him. It is understood that he wants to return to his native Brazil to be with his ill son.

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says striker Nicklas Bendtner will miss the start of the Premier League season due to a persistent groin injury. The Denmark international underwent surgery last November, but the injury hampered his World Cup campaign.

Wenger announced yesterday that "Bendtner will not be available for the start of the season".

Arsenal's campaign starts against Liverpool on August 15. Wenger fears he could also be without captain Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie. The players featured in the World Cup final and are not due back at the club until August 5. - AFP