Manchester United News: Didier Drogba's Absence Is Very Good News for United

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba will miss the club’s trip to Old Trafford on Sunday, giving Manchester United a big boost in an early season clash between two of England’s top teams.

The Ivorian striker injured his head in a 3-1 win against Norwich earlier this season, and is unable to make the trip to Old Trafford, leaving the Blues with Fernando Torres as the likely starter at striker. Frenchman Nicolas Anelka is also a candidate for the starting striker spot.

Drogba will not be thrown into the fire with a concussion, and it’s a smart move by new Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas, who realizes a healthy Drogba is crucial to his team’s trophy chances this season.

Drogba’s strength, powerful play and goal scoring ability will be missed against United, who have allowed important goals to him in the past.

Two years ago, Drogba scored the winning goal in a late season matchup at Old Trafford that helped Chelsea to the title.

Drogba’s absence gives way for Torres, if he starts, to make a statement against the defending Premier League champions, and justify the enormous transfer fee Chelsea paid Liverpool in January to acquire the Spanish striker.

Torres has found the back of the net just once in 23 games for Chelsea, and has lost his goal scoring form he displayed at Liverpool for many years, despite being healthy during his tenure at Stamford Bridge.

Even without Didier Drogba, Chelsea has plenty of goal scoring power.  Stopping Manchester United’s attack of Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez will be the determining factor for Chelsea, who must be solid defensively to have a chance at winning.