Wenger hopes to deny Drogba

Arsene Wenger has admitted that keeping Didier Drogba quiet will be the key if Arsenal are to overcome Chelsea at Emirates Stadium on Monday night.

The Ivory Coast striker has never been on the losing side against the Gunners and has tormented them virtually every time he has faced them, plundering 13 goals in 13 appearances.

Blues manager Carlo Ancelotti last week claimed that Arsenal were afraid of Drogba and Wenger is fully aware of the threat he will present.

Wenger believes Drogba has the mentality to thrive when the pressure is on and admires his combination with midfielder Frank Lampard.

"Drogba has always been very efficient against us. He is a big-game player," said Wenger.