Anelka has taken advantage of the Ivory Coast striker's injury problems at the start of this season to secure a regular spot in attack for the Blues.

Drogba has had to be content with a place on the bench in recent weeks. However, the 30-year-old is determined to bounce back by being let loose with Anelka for the second half of the season.

He said: "Nico is in top form but that doesn't surprise me. When he was at Bolton, he scored lots of goals and his team were low down the table so I knew he was going to succeed at Chelsea.

"He is benefiting from the fact he is playing regularly and I am happy for him. The dream for both of us is to play together in attack.

"I am sure we could score lots of goals but for that to happen, we must be playing together."