In the last couple of seasons, Arsenal defenders have not been able to cope with the strength, height and pace of Chelsea striker Didier Drogba who is already looking forward to the weekend game against the Gunners.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, the Ivory Coast International declared he loves to feature in big games and loves to face Arsenal, one of his favourites teams. Drogba, 32, revealed how when in France the Gunners were an example to follow as a number of French-based players left the country to join manager Arsene Wenger.

On Sunday’s game, the striker added how losing is not an option for the Blues as although games will be lost during the season, losing two in a row would be a big blow.

Carlo Ancelotti’s men know that a win would see them take a 7-point lead at the top with the Gunners set to be without captain Cesc Fabregas who according to manager Arsene Wenger has only a 50:50 chance of featuring at Stamford Bridge.

On Arsenal, Drogba said:

I love playing big games and I love playing against Arsenal. I always say that Arsenal is one of my favourite teams.

When I was playing in France, Arsenal was an example for us because there were all these French players who used to play in the French league and went abroad to play for Arsenal with a French manager.

So to play against them for me means a lot.

I don’t think we can afford to lose a second game, especially against Arsenal.

People have to know, and we know, that we’re going to lose some games this season. But again, it’s always good to win, it’s always better to win.