The Liverpool frontman is the current Barclays Premier League top scorer with 10 goals. Drogba is still one behind after they both netted at the weekend.

"It's nice to have this competition with Torres to finish top scorer. It's always a good challenge to be part of," Drogba said.

"Three seasons ago I was in a race against Benni McCarthy and Cristiano Ronaldo and I managed to come out on top.

"It's a big challenge for me to finish ahead of Torres this season and gives me the desire to do more for my team."

three times

Drogba is benefitting from an effective partnership with Nicolas Anelka, although the Frenchman has scored just three times this season.

"I really feel good about the way the season is going for Chelsea. The key thing is we are playing with two strikers up front and I have a lot of support," added Drogba.

"The way we pass the ball is really good, we have really improved and that is what has made the difference.

"I would like to beat my best-ever total for Chelsea of 33 goals but it's a target as long as we keep winning games, stay top of the league and win the title at the end of the season."

Chelsea host Manchester United in Sunday's summit match at Stamford Bridge.