Anelka: Point to prove

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Nicolas Anelka is hoping to be utilised as an out-and-out striker by Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari.

The France international grew increasingly frustrated towards the end of last season as former boss Avram Grant insisted on deploying him as a winger.

The 29-year-old struggled in front of goal as a result, scoring just twice in 24 appearances and missing the crucial penalty in the UEFA Champions League final penalty shoot-out against Manchester United.

However, he has been encouraged by Scolari's preference for fielding a 4-4-2 formation and expects to be back to his old self next term.

Natural

"It was very frustrating for me to be played wide on the left or on the right last season," Anelka said in the London Evening Standard.

"I started my time at Chelsea very well in my position and then I got moved out wide - I didn't know why.

"I tried to do my best, but what happened, happened. There is a very good chance I will be starting in my natural position next season and that is good.

"I try to do my best on the pitch. I have done it before at other clubs so there is no reason why I can't show my quality at Chelsea."

Partnership

Anelka will be hoping to partner Didier Drogba during the 2008/09 campaign, providing the Ivory Coast hit-man stays at Stamford Bridge.

"If Didier is still here we can work together," he said.

"We haven't really done so yet, but we will be a great partnership.

"We know each other and the way we like to play. But whoever starts we will give our best. But like anything, it all depends on the manager."

Difficult

The former Arsenal man also revealed that he is desperate to help the Blues claim some silverware next season, as the memories of penalty heartache in the torrential rain of Moscow continue to haunt him.

"It is very hard for me because I wasn't involved at the start of the competition," he said.

"Even when I did play I was on the pitch for five, 10 minutes and it wasn't in my position so the penalty miss was more difficult for me.

"I try not to think about it, but it's very hard. Even if I'd scored that penalty I still would feel I have something to prove."