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Shevchenko insists he can still star at Chelsea
LONDON (AFP) - Andriy Shevchenko insisted Tuesday he can still be a Chelsea legend if he avoids the injuries that have plagued him since his move to Stamford Bridge.
Shevchenko has endured a miserable two years in west London following his 30 million pounds (37 million euros) move from AC Milan and has repeatedly been linked with a switch back to Serie A.
The Ukraine striker scored 173 times for Milan but has only recorded nine league goals for Chelsea, yet he has no intention of throwing in the towel.
"During these two years at Chelsea I had two operations and a serious back injury," Shevchenko told the club's official website.
"If I will have the opportunity to train and play without injuries, I would like to leave my mark on the history of Chelsea. Injuries constantly kept me out of action.
"I have trained with the team only a week. The process of recovery is taking place normally and the injury doesn't bother me."
Shevchenko hopes to thrive under new manager Luiz Felipe Scolari, who has already promised to give the forward a fresh start.
"It is gratifying that the coach gave me an opportunity to get back to the rhythm of playing," Shevchenko added.
"We had a good conversation. I'm only now getting into shape and recovering from injury, so prefence is given to those players who are in better form.
"The coach always chooses the best players in order to choose the best scheme. I very much respect Scolari as a man and a great coach.
"I think the challenge for the coach now is to find the optimum team and help the players achieve their best form.
"Scolari has enough players to change the scheme of the game. He will be able to judge the best strategy."
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