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Jose Mourinho has given a major hint that he wants Didier Drogba to carry on playing for Chelsea next season and not consider retirement just yet.
Drogba returned to the club as a free agent in the summer and has continued to make a major impact at Stamford Bridge, where he initially starred between 2004-12.
The 36-year-old has scored five goals in his last 10 appearances and has been an inspirational leader in the dressing room.
Mourinho confirmed once again that the veteran will be given a role at the club after he quits and that the timing of the decision is one only he should make.
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Drogba did appear to suggest last month that he wanted to go out on a high by winning silverware this term.
But Mourinho said: "My personal story is that he's still a very good player and if he wants my advice in the future, he should stop when he wants, when he feels - not be waiting for me or the club to decide.
"We love him, we want him, he's a great player. He should stop when he wants. After that I know Mr (Roman) Abramovich is very happy to keep him in the club in every area where we feel and he feels, is useful and happy.
"But that's after he makes the decision of stopping, which I don't think is tomorrow."
