A tribute to Didier Drogba

Football as a game often inspires and exasperates in equal measure, and more often than not some of the protagonists who play out the scenes display their entire gamut of emotions. As the last kick of a turbulent European season trickled into the net in Munich, it marked the end of an era for a burly Ivorian whose ability, theatrics and skill were always played on the grandest stage.

Didier Drogba came to west London nearly eight years back,with a reputation of being a late bloomer, someone who only took to football at a very late stage in his life. I clearly remember being more excited about Mateja Kezman and Arjen Robben bringing their batman and robin act to Stamford Bridge in 2004 way more than the arrival of Drogba. The special one, however, had other ideas, he had already earmarked Drogba as the man to lead his attack.

As the season unfolded one often wondered why there was so much faith put in him, yes he had the presence but through 2004 and 2005 he also had the uncanny knack of making the simplest chances look awfully difficult. The summer of 2006 though changed the way I felt about Drogba, particularly after his winner from outside the box while turning Jamie Carragher inside out was stuff of legends…. Not one to do things early, the late bloomer finally began his surge as the most dominant force in the premier league. He was the orthodox center forward, a towering presence who could hold the ball like no other, yet he had a nimble touch and a eye for the spectacular. I remember getting frustrated watching his lack of energy in a game against Everton and form nowhere, Drogba slams it in from 35 yards out.

It was things like this that made him the ringmaster for everything that unfolded at the bridge. A man who often reveled in being the only option his team mates had to turn to, when they were running out of ideas. Very rarely did he disappoint. As the years wound down, Chelsea invested in the likes of Shevchenko, Anelka and most recently Fernando Torres, but Didi remained their main man. Always one for the big occasion, each of his nine goals scored in cup finals were more memorable than the previous one. I write this though as a fan, who admittedly has always had a divided opinion on Drogba. I was never a big fan of this theatrics, scowled at his selfishness at times, and then was left speechless by his brilliance.

I screamed in anger when he gave away the penalty in Munich, but believe you me I will be first in line seeking an autograph when he comes to Delhi this June the 17th.

Didier Drogba thank you for the memories…