Jose Mourinho plays down Romelu Lukaku-Didier Drogba comparisons

Romelu Lukaku: Looking to make his mark at Chelsea in 2013/14

Romelu Lukaku: Looking to make his mark at Chelsea in 2013/14

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Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho says Romelu Lukaku is his own man and should not be compared with Didier Drogba.

Lukaku has admitted to seeking advice from former Blues star Drogba as he attempts to make his own mark at Stamford Bridge.

A productive loan spell at West Bromwich Albion in 2012/13 has shown that the Belgium international has the game to be a Premier League success story.

He is, however, entering a crucial campaign in his career, with the likes of Fernando Torres and Demba Ba providing competition for places at Chelsea, and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney known to be a top target for the Blues.

"We have to respect Lukaku and the best way to respect Lukaku is not to compare him with a legend of Chelsea Football Club. The kid is good."
Jose Mourinho

Lukaku has impressed during pre-season - scoring twice during a tour of Asia - and continues to be billed as 'the new Drogba'.

Mourinho, though, is wary of comparing the two - despite the obvious similarities in their playing styles - and would prefer to let his promising 20-year-old frontman make a name for himself in his own right.

"We have to respect Didier, because Didier's unique in Chelsea history," Mourinho said.

"And we have to respect Lukaku and the best way to respect Lukaku is not to compare him with a legend of Chelsea Football Club. The kid is good."

Mourinho admits Lukaku still has a lot to learn if he is to fulfil his potential and become a global striking sensation, but sees no reason why he cannot become the focal point of Chelsea's attack.

Asked if the youngster could start the season as his first-choice frontman, the Portuguese tactician said: "Of course. It's up to the kid, but he's open and intelligent enough to learn the kind of movement we want.

"We don't want the striker just aiming between the central defenders, but making movements, sometimes between the midfield or moving wide. They're learning to play the way I want.

"Every manager has his own ideas. Lukaku had a fantastic manager last season in Steve Clarke but Steve is Steve, I am me, and West Brom is not Chelsea."


Source : http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11668/8835161/jose-mourinho-plays-down-romelu-lukaku-didier-drogba-comparisons