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Chelsea boss denies reports that Drogba gave half-time team talk

Andre Villas Boas has rubbished rumours that his Ivorian striker inspired his team-mates to a second half recovery against Birmingham.

CHELSEA MANAGER ANDRE Villas Boas has rubbished rumours that striker Didier Drogba gave the half-time team talk during Saturday’s FA Cup draw against Birmingham at Stamford Bridge.

The Premier League side put in a dire first half display against the Championship outfit – falling behind to a David Murphy strike – but improved dramatically after the break.

Daniel Sturridge’s header ultimately brought the fifth round tie to a replay.

Commenting on reports that substitute Drogba was behind the turnaround, Villas Boas responded: “This is ridiculous. I have nothing to say on that because it makes no sense at all.

“We had opportunities to win the game, but it’s never good when you draw at home to a Championship team. It’s a poor result.”

Villas Boas – booed by fans for taking off fan favourite Juan Mata – admitted that his side is currently low on confidence. Chelsea currently lie fifth in the Premier League table and are on a winless run of five matches. They have Napoli on Tuesday in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie.

“We need an extra mental push to feel the confidence,” admitted the Portuguese.

“That comes with results and, until you get out of the cycle, it perpetuates. We don’t have enough good results at the moment.

“We are still in two competitions. The game on Tuesday against Napoli is the first leg and we have a wait for the second leg at Stamford Bridge, and regarding the FA Cup we are still in it. We have a difficult game against Napoli but we have a chance for sure.”

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