Scolari persuaded me to stay, says Drogba

Didier Drogba has admitted Luiz Felipe Scolari persuaded him to stay at Chelsea when the Ivory Coast striker was considering a move away from Stamford Bridge in the close-season.

Drogba spent much of last season disgruntled after Jose Mourinho's shock exit and he was repeatedly linked with a transfer during the transfer window.

But the former Marseille star eventually decided to snub interest from several top European clubs after an emotional heart-to-heart with new boss Scolari.

Having worked with the Brazilian for nearly three months now, Drogba is happy that he made the right choice and has likened Scolari to Mourinho.

“Scolari is one of those coaches who is very close to the players. His style is similar to Mourinho's,” Drogba told The People.

“I like this type of coach. I feel much more comfortable with this style of management.

“I spoke with him and he showed he wanted me to stay and that is what finally convinced me.

“I have had a lot to think about throughout this summer. It is true that it was 50/50 as to whether I would stay but I still think I have something to prove.”

Drogba is determined to help Chelsea make amends for last season's defeat to Manchester United Champions League final.

The Blues lost out on penalties in Moscow but Drogba believes they can go one step further in the competition under Scolari.

“Europe has become the unfinished business of my career,” he said. “The game against Manchester United in Moscow is still a painful memory for the players.

“We had the cup so close but we have to forget and concentrate on reaching the final again this season.

“Chelsea were better than United in Moscow and we should never have got to penalties. We were on top in extra time and we should have finished the job.

“The team has another air about it at the moment. Scolari has connected well with the squad and that is the key for things to work well. The atmosphere is different to that under Avram Grant.”