Scolari plans to keep Sheva

Striker challenged to prove his worth

Last updated: 16th July 2008

Chelsea Press Conference Manager Luiz Felipe Scolari

Scolari: Backing for Shevchenko

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Chelsea boss Luiz Felipe Scolari has indicated that he plans to keep Andriy Shevchenko at Stamford Bridge.

The Ukrainian international has been strongly linked with a move away from Chelsea this summer after struggling to hold down a regular place in the side.

Shevchenko's former AC Milan club have been continually linked with a move for the 31-year-old, while Sampdoria have also been credited with an interest in the striker.

However, Scolari has played down talk of a move and has assured Shechenko he figures in his plans.

"Last season he made 12 starts and scored eight," Scolari told the Daily Star.

"Yes, he is a player for Chelsea. If I see him in training and if I believe in him, I will put him on the field."

Boost

Meanwhile, Scolari has received a boost with the news that Ricardo Carvalho has pledged to stay at the club.

Carvalho was believed to be on the shopping list of former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho at Inter Milan, with the player not ruling a reunion with the Portuguese tactician.

The Portuguese international has now played down the rumours, saying he is looking forward to the challenge of a new season at Chelsea.

"It is good to see all the people again, fighting for the club like we have for the past few years," Carvalho told The Times.