Robben still improving
(Agencies)
Updated: 2005-07-05 15:07

Chelsea winger Arjen Robben has warned the Premiership that he will be better than ever when the new season gets underway in August.

Dutch footballer Arjen Robben kicks the ball during a training session ahead of the World Cup 2006 qualifier football match in Helsinki, Finland June 7, 2005. The Netherlands will play against Finland during the World Cup 2006 qualification match on Wednesday. [Reuters]

Robben's electric performances in the second half of last season were crucial as Chelsea wrapped up the Premiership title and the Dutchman scored seven goals in 18 Premiership appearances.

Robben, who missed the last part of the season with a niggling ankle injury, said: "Although we were champions, I wasn't 100% satisfied with my contribution, which was mainly down to my injuries."

"I hope next season I will manage to stay free from physical problems. It's hard being on the sidelines - you have no way of using up your energy and you get frustrated because you want to prove yourself, especially when you are playing for a new club."

Robben's stunning pace and trickery lit up the Premiership last season and spawned comparisons between him and Dutch legend Johan Cruyff.

However, Robben, 21, shies away from such talk, adding: "I know why people draw the comparison - we are both more fragile than muscular, fast, skilful and like dribbling. And we both were pretty good at a young age."

"But I cannot be compared to Cruyff yet as I haven't reached the same level. He was unbelievable. My style of play hasn't changed much since I was a youngster. I was always the same, taking on opponents, doing whatever came to mind - improvising, if you like."

"I have learned to keep an eye on where my team-mates are. If someone is in a better position than me, I'll pass."

"When I was a youngster I lacked that awareness - the only thing that interested me was scoring as many goals as possible and breaking records from the season before."

"For now and the next couple of years, I'd like to play in a wide role, either left or right. It doesn't make much difference to me which side. It's the role I've always played and suits my qualities best."

"Maybe when I am in my mid-20s I'll want to try a more central role. What I like most in a coach is when he gives clear instructions without restricting my freedom too much and gives me confidence. He has to show faith in my qualities."

Jose Mourinho has certainly done that and such is the belief in the Chelsea camp that Robben has already set his own personal sights on reaching the final of the Champions League next season.

He added: "I think we will have the same chance of winning it next season. You need a little luck and I'm sure many people would agree that's what we were lacking a bit against Liverpool in the semis. When we start preparing for the new season we'll be looking to win it again."

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