Meet the Elephants: Strikers

January 17th, 2008 | by: gianfranco | Comments(5)

Finally, the true talent of the Elephants is in the striker department where an embarrassment of talent has left me and maybe even the coaches wondering how to find time for so many talented and dynamic footballers. I am sure Uli and Gili have contemplated playing 3-1-6 or even 2-4-4 but as we all know those formations are impractical and totally insane. It will depend on the coaching staff to play the hot player and contend with any injuries that may force some big times to see less action than anticipated.

Didier Drogba: There is very little to say about one of the best and most talismanic footballers in all of Africa, England, and maybe even Europe. There are few players out there with talent of Didier with his back talent, and even fewer with the ability to make something of nothing and score some of the prettiest goals I have seen in a long time. Coming off a knee injury he may not be ready in time for the Cup but is a must have on the squad for leadership, support, and the shear chance that he is ready. Remember a 60 or 70% fit Drogba is still a heck of a player. Look for Didier to cash in on success at the ANC with a move to may favorite club team AC Milan. Enjoy Didier’s talents below:

Abdul Keita: A somewhat unkown has really won my heart as a player with tons of talents and slight similarity to one Didier Drogba. His strength on the ball and flank also bring to mind players like Cristiano Ronaldo. With 32 caps to his name expect to add that total and earn a fair amount of playing time if Drogba is not match fit.

Salomon Kalou: Another Chelsea man akin to Didier, Kalou has really begun to earn his keep as a solid striking option at Stamford Bridge and possibly for the Elephants as well. Already scoring 1 goal in two caps Kalou has a ton of big game experience at Chelsea and will make a strong started and possible an even stronger sub. In my opinion he is a viable option, but also has a ton of games ahead to prove himself even further.

Aruna Dindane: The 28 year old Lens man is no slouch when it cames to International football. 14 elephant games make him a solid scoring option and great leader alongside the likes of Drogba. Linked with a move to the EPL even at 28 Dindane is a strong attacking option and fits the puzzle perfectly.

Arouna Kone: 27 Caps and 9 goals make Kone another perfect option in the attack. The former PSV turned Sevilla man has impressed this season and looks to make an impact at the ANC. Not a first choice during the 06WC, Kone may see more playing time again dependent on the injury of Drogba and the choices of the coaches. Arouna is not the only Kone in the attack his brother Bakari is a striking option as well, but not as strong as Arouna, and a few years older.