Key players like Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Michael Ballack have all passed 30 but Ancelotti does not give any credence to suggestions they are past their best.

Instead, he believes they are ready to offer the best football of their careers and, having led an ageing AC Milan to glory during his time at the San Siro, he is well-placed to judge.

Indeed, it was under Ancelotti's guidance that Milan legend Paolo Maldini was able to carry on until 40 years of age.

Now Ancelotti insists the current crop of Chelsea players can also defy the age barrier as the Blues look to extend their lead to five points with victory over United at Stamford Bridge tomorrow.

"John Terry is a young player and so is Lampard, said Ancelotti. "When one player is 30 years old, he is the centre of his career. Ten years ago he was an old player but now with the physical training, the age of 30 is the best moment of a player's career."

Drogba is certainly playing some of the best football of his career with 12 goals already this season - nine of them in the Premier League.

But while Drogba provides the goal threat, a revitalised Joe Cole will help supply the ammunition for the Ivory Coast international and strike partner Nicolas Anelka.

Cole has recently returned to action after an eight-month absence due to knee ligament damage and Ancelotti is convinced that the midfielder can play his way back into the England reckoning and seal a new long-term contract with the club.

"I have not spoken to Fabio Capello about Joe Cole," admits Ancelotti. "Joe has to continue to improve and he will have an opportunity to return to play in the national team.

"Joe has quality but he is also dynamic. His return is very important for the club. We want to keep Joe and he wants to stay with us. There will not be a problem with his future.

"Because of that I can say we don't need other players. Joe is in very good condition. He is playing with consistency."

Cole's return could not have come at a better time although the pressure on the Blues was lifted by the Court of Arbitration for Sport on Friday.

Chelsea had been banned from signing any new players after FIFA found them guilty of inducing teenager Gael Kakuta to breach his contract with Lens two years ago.

But Chelsea appealed against the punishment and also requested that CAS suspend the ban until their case is heard in full. That request was granted by CAS to leave Chelsea free to sign players in January.

But while Chelsea have Anelka and Drogba in top form, Ancelotti is very much aware of the danger posed by Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov for United.

"Berbatov is a good striker," said Ancelotti. " He has a very good partnership with Wayne Rooney. Together they are playing with good combination. We have to pay attention to this. They are a very good pair, as are Drogba and Anelka."