Malouda: We are prepared for Spurs

Last updated : 17 September 2009 By Paul Lagan
Florent Malouda is confident Chelsea will overcome Spurs at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and has revealed insights into the workings of Carlo Ancelotti's side of which he is playing a pivotal role.
The French wideman - a revelation since the departure of Scolari lst season is a key member of the Chelsea side that has taken a 100 per cent record so far this campaign - six wins out of six..
Speaking to Chelsea-Mad, Malouda, as articulate with the English language as he is with the ball at his feet explained his role.
"I am asked to play in a midfield diamond on left and keep the balance, " he said.
"When Ashley (Cole) goes forward and tries to find space behind the defence I cover and help him.
"It's a bit hard as I have to run a lot," he joked.
There's no denying Malouda's stamina and no one has yet pierced Chelsea's left flank this term.
He continues: "The balance in the team is important but also the movement of players
"We always have to think about our positions on the pitch. We also have to think about balance when we lose the ball - it's a very important part of our game. It's What we are trying to improve all the time."
It's clear that Chelsea are very focused on what happens when they have the ball and it's illuminating to hear Malouda explain the work on the training ground that goes when the ball is not in their possession.
And to illustrate this Malouda added: "Against Porto, they came with the ambition to play the quick counter-attack. So we tried to find space but also keep the balance of the side when they had the ball.
"We made the effort, succeeded and did not concede.
Malouda went on to explain: "We worked hard in pre-season so we are physically prepared for tough game that come quickly one after the other, so we have no worries about our fitness for taking on Spurs.
"Knowing we have prepared well give us the energy to carry on right to the final whistle. We have positive energy and want to play in the big games.
"Spurs want to break into the top six so it will be tough.
"They want to be on the top of their game when they play us, but we are at home and confident.
"We have recovered well from the Porto game on Wednesday.
"We watched their game against Manchester United and they played well. So we have to be very careful but play our own game too.
"Spurs' team have a strong squad and Defoe is on fire but also Bassong is doing well and giving them energy".
Chelsea will recall Didier Drogba to the side for the derby clash.
The Ivory Coast striker was suspended for three Champions League games and thus missed the one-nil win over Porto.
"I don't think we missed Didier as we won and scored," said Malouda.
"But he is a world-class striker so it's very important to have him as he can keep the ball at the end of the game when we get tired.
"But we have a strong squad
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