5 Players That CFC Should Sell This Summer (Part Four) – Yuri Zhirkov

Yuri Zhirkov:

Age: 27 Appearances (Goals): 48 (1) Signed from: CSKA Moscow (£18million, 2009)

Possible Destinations: Zenit St. Petersburg, CSKA Moscow, Rubin Kazan

Transfer value: £10-15million

Following his £18million move from Russia, Zhirkov has failed to make an impact in the Premier League. The fact that he has made only 48 appearances in the last two years shows that Zhirkov is deemed as a squad player than a main player. Initially brought to provide competition to Ashley Cole, Zhirkov has failed to dislodge the England left-back and with players such as Ryan Bertrand and Patrick van Aanholt showing promise at various loan spells and in the reserves, Zhirkov may fall further down the pecking order.

Dubbed the Russian Ronaldinho, Zhirkov first arrived to the club with high expectations. Being able to play either at left-back or at left-wing, injuries have hampered Zhirkov’s chances of playing many games. His brilliant volley against Spartak Moscow, which to date his is only goal for Chelsea, is probably his best out of a few highlights in a Chelsea shirt.

However, should Zhirkov leave we would be losing a versitile player. With Zhirkov able to play anywhere down the left-hand side, he is an ideal player to bring on should we need more flair and life down the left flanks. Despite being seen as our second-choice player and his limited chances, Zhirkov has shown at times why Chelsea forked out £18million for the Russian. His performance against Man United in the league showed Chelsea fans what he can offer.

Many fans feel that Zhirkov hasn’t been given enough chances to prove that he is worthy of being a regular. Injury hasn’t helped his case as it is seen as one of the reasons for his lack of apperances.

Should Chelsea keep him, it may be wise should anything happen to Ashley Cole or Florent Malouda. But with his lack of chances also affecting his selection chances for the national squad, the Russian may feel that a move away will help his cause and give him more game time.