Jose in fresh defence of Drogba

Jose Mourinho has again leapt to the defence of his controversial striker Didier Drogba.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has again leapt to the defence of his controversial striker Didier Drogba.

Drogba scored twice to help Chelsea to a 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Saturday but once again made the headlines for all the wrong reasons amid continued accusations of diving and a clear handball in the build-up to the second goal.

The Ivorian did little to dispel the doubts by admitting inadvertently in a BBC interview that he had dived in the past and, although he later dismissed the admission, it will do little to improve the popular perception of the 28-year-old.

The Football Association are expected to decide shortly if they are to act on the comments made by Drogba but Mourinho insists the player still enjoys the unwavering support of the club.

The Portuguese has upheld the professional integrity of his £24 million signing from Marseille and claims Drogba was perfectly within his rights to fall to ground after a collision with Richard Dunne left him clutching his face.

"It was a big thing - it was a finger very strong in his eye which was completely full of blood," said Mourinho.

"Of course he is not blind but it was something serious. The referee saw it as an accident and I accept that.

"Sometimes he is a player who does not get what he deserves. Drogba is a fighter.

"I am happy with him and we are happy to have a professional like him.

"Players are not just about the skilful and beautiful ones who play for the stands. It is important to have players who fight for the team, work for the team - attack and defend.

"He is the kind of player I would say 'with you I could go to every war.' He is a very important player for us."