Drogba sad to lose Gallas

Didier Drogba believes that William Gallas' departure is a huge loss for Chelsea.

Gallas left Stamford Bridge for Arsenal on transfer deadline day after months of uncertainty about his future, in a deal which saw Ashley Cole travel in the opposite direction.

But Drogba feels that Chelsea should have done more to keep the Frenchman, who he views as the best versatile defender in the world.

"William Gallas' departure is a massive loss. He is one of the greatest defenders in the world," said Drogba.

"When it comes to the ability to play anywhere, he is the best on the planet.

"It is very hard to part with a player of Gallas' quality. But if that is what is the club have done, it must be because they see sense in the deal."

Drogba was tipped to leave Chelsea himself towards the end of last season, but he insists that he is more committed to the club than ever.

However, the former Marseille star has revealed that Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas did approach him about a possible move in the summer.

"It would have been very interesting to join Lyon. But the reality is that I have two years left on my contract at Chelsea, and I like to honour my contracts," Drogba explained.

"I feel flattered by Mr Aulas' interest as Lyon are becoming an increasingly respected European club.

"I often get phone calls from Bernard Lacombe, the president's adviser. He asks me how things are going here and whether I would be interested in returning to France one day.

"But Chelsea have proved how much they value me. I have become an essential player for them and I feel a genuine respect coming from them."

"When you look at the people we have signed during the close season, you realise they've not just come in to win the Carling Cup."