Didier Drogba returns to Chelsea

Chelsea FC have announced the re-signing of forward Didier Drogba, who ended his first spell with the club by scoring the winning penalty in the 2012 UEFA Champions League final.

Two years on from helping Chelsea secure Europe's top prize on that famous night in Munich, the Ivorian – voted the Blues' greatest ever player by fans in 2012 – rejoins from Galatasaray AŞ on a one-year contract. He described the comeback as "an easy decision".

"I couldn't turn down the opportunity to work with José [Mourinho] again," said the 36-year-old, who scored 157 goals in 341 appearances during his first spell with the Blues. "Everyone knows the special relationship I have with this club and it has always felt like home to me. My desire to win is still the same and I look forward to the opportunity to help this team. I am excited for this next chapter of my career."

Having joined Chelsea from Olympique de Marseille in 2004, he won three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two English League Cups and the UEFA Champions League in west London before moving to Chinese outfit Shanghai Shenhua FC for six months ahead of a further transfer to Galatasaray.

"He's coming because he's one of the best strikers in Europe," said Chelsea manager Mourinho. "I know his personality very well. He'll not protected by history or what he's done for this club previously. He is coming with the mentality to make more history."