The Ivorian striker collected a knock on his knee in the 1-0 win over Manchester City last Sunday.

Drogba has returned to something like his old form following Hiddink's arrival as coach last month.

It has been a difficult season for the 30-year-old, who has been dogged by injury problems and, despite his improved displays, he admits he is not yet back to his best.

"The last 12 months were really bad because I had different emotions," admitted Drogba. "I had hard times with the knee injury and then came back and got another injury.

"When you are injured for long periods, it is difficult sometimes to come back to your level in a few weeks. It takes time but I just needed to play and that wasn't the case - but that is football.

"I think I am in good form at the moment. Back to my best? I don't think so but maybe not far. I really feel good and I really enjoy being on the pitch and playing.

"When you are out for a while and this is what you do best, it is difficult to be out. Now, every moment I spend on the pitch, I try to enjoy and to give everything because I know maybe tomorrow I can get an injury and be out again for a while."

Drogba's return from injury was further complicated by suspension and a personality clash with former coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.

It culminated in a dreadful performance against Manchester United in January that prompted Scolari to axe the Ivorian from the squad. Scolari was eventually sacked and Hiddink appointed as temporary coach until the summer.

But Drogba remains adamant a lack of full fitness was the reason for his poor form.

"Nobody can complain about my commitment," added Drogba. "Players are different; it is like the five fingers on the hand - all different but they shine in different ways.

"I don't have any problem for another player to be more popular than me. I am not looking for this. I just try to have a great life, enjoy what I am doing and make people around me happy."

Drogba has rediscovered his goal touch under Hiddink and his own upturn in form has been matched by a rejuvenated spirit within the dressing room.

"Team spirit has always been good but, when you lose, it is difficult for people to get a smile on their face," said Drogba. "When you win it makes things easier and everybody is more relaxed and comfortable."