The Ivory Coast international is expected to be fit to face Tottenham on Saturday as the Blues continue their push to steal the Barclays Premier League crown from leaders Manchester United.

United's defeat at home to Liverpool last weekend has opened up the title race and Drogba is raring to go after a slight knee injury suffered against Manchester City.

"The last 12 months were really bad because I had different emotions," Drogba said.

"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."

While the Blues travel across London to face Spurs at White Hart Lane, United will be kicking off against Fulham at the same time in the capital.

The Red Devils still hold a four-point lead with a game in hand despite last weekend's shocking defeat by rivals Liverpool.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson already knows he will be without the suspended Nemanja Vidic at Craven Cottage.

Third-placed Liverpool, level on points with Chelsea, face Aston Villa in an intriguing clash on Sunday boosted by last weekend's win and manager Rafael Benitez's renewed commitment to the club.

The Spaniard ended months of speculation by signing a new contract until 2014 last night in a move which may finally bring some stability off the pitch at Anfield.

In Saturday's evening kick-off Arsenal travel to struggling Newcastle with both sides feeling the heat in the league.

The Gunners moved into the last four of the FA Cup this week but are involved in a fierce tussle with Villa for the final Champions League spot.

Newcastle, meanwhile, are only outside the relegation zone on goal difference.

European hopefuls Everton could put pressure on both Arsenal and Villa by beating Portsmouth at Fratton Park, with on-loan striker Jo in form having scored three in five recently.

The most intriguing clash at the bottom of the table sees 18th-placed Stoke host 19th-placed Middlesbrough in what is sure to be a gritty affair. Both sides could jump out of the relegation zone with victory if other results go their way.

Rock-bottom West Brom face mid-table Bolton aiming to build on a good performance in the goalless draw at West Ham on Monday while troubled Blackburn - still firmly in the relegation mix - host the Hammers at Ewood Park.

On Sunday, Manchester City welcome Sunderland to Eastlands with Wigan taking on Hull at the JJB Stadium.