Luiz Felipe Scolari insists there was no ulterior motive behind his decision to drop Didier Drogba.
Blues boss explains his decision to drop star striker
Luiz Felipe Scolari insists there was no ulterior motive behind his decision to drop Didier Drogba on Wednesday.
The Ivorian striker was left out of Chelsea's squad for their FA Cup third round replay at Southend after disappointing during a 3-0 defeat against Manchester United.
His absence inevitably caused a stir, with transfer rumours resurfacing as suggestions of a falling out began to emerge.
Scolari, however, insists there is no issue between the pair and maintains that all of his decisions are based purely on a football philosophy.
"Didier is not being made a scapegoat," declared the Brazilian coach.
"The reason he was left out was because it was an option for me. I put this player or that player in the team.
"His reaction was normal. When you sign a contract at a club, you are first or second choice, the coach chooses.
"My job here is to choose 11 players and the job for the players is to play. Finish.
Victim
"I am a victim. I lost 3-0 against United. I and the club. No player is more of a victim than me and the club.
"It is difficult for me because both Nicolas (Anelka) and Didier are very good players but I pick the player I believe is better for Chelsea.
"Drogba is training very well. I am happy with my players - all of them."
Drogba has been welcomed back in the fold for Saturday's visit from Stoke and will be joined in the squad by Ricardo Carvalho.
The Portuguese centre-half missed the midweek win at Roots Hall through injury but has been given the all clear to resume first-team duties.
"Carvalho is in now in good condition," said Scolari.
"He had a problem in his calf.
"The doctor said to me it was a risk to play him (against Southend) and that I could have lost him for one or two months. If it is a risk, I don't play him. Not just him but any player."
