BRIDGE: I AM NO SECOND CHOICE

Chelsea and England defender Wayne Bridge insists he has every chance of becoming the club's first-choice left-back despite Ashley Cole's dominance at Stamford Bridge.Bridge will play against Levski Sofia in Chelsea’s final Champions League Group A game at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening convinced that he is in an “even” fight for the full-back berth.

The former Southampton defender recently signed a new four-year contract with the Barclays Premiership champions even though he has made just eight appearances in all competitions for the Blues so far this season.

Bridge was given an assurance by manager Jose Mourinho that he would be involved in an even battle with Cole for the left-back role, following the former Arsenal player’s summer arrival.
And Mourinho’s word was good enough for him to pledge his long-term future to the club.

CHELSEA STRONG DESPITE TERRY LOSS

Bridge, who is also understudy to Cole at international level with England, saidd: “It was difficult when Ashley turned up. He is a great player but I see it as an even affair.

“They have given me the chance to sign a new contract and hopefully I will get more opportunities to play and it will be an even fight for the place.

“I spoke to Jose before Ashley signed. The gaffer always told me he was going to bring in a left-back and Ashley always looked like being the first choice.

“Jose told me it would be an even affair so I was happy to sign a new deal.

“I hope he sticks to that but I am getting chances to play. He seems happy with me but if anyone takes a dip in form they are not going to play.

“Ashley is one of the best in the world but I don’t see myself just sitting behind him.

“My form has been really good and I want to fight for my place. To do that I’ve got to keep playing well when I get the chance. I don’t see myself as second choice.