Chelsea striker Didier Drogba admits he misses Marseille but believes it would be hard to return to his former club.
The Chelsea striker spent a season at Marseille before moving to Stamford Bridge in 2004. In his brief time at the French club Drogba swiftly established himself as a firm fan's favourite as his 11 goals in Europe fired them to the UEFA Cup final.
The Ivory Coast international, who won the Ligue 1 Player of the Year award, is still fond of his former club but claims a return to the Stade Velodrome is not on the cards for the time being.
"I miss Marseille. That's true," Drogba told France Football. "I have many friends there among the managers, but also from the club physios to the baker on the corner. "But I have already said, it would be hard to go back.
"Moreover, I would prefer to avoid this question because that could lead to misunderstandings, whether in France or in England.
"If I ever return to Marseille it will come about naturally."
Drogba recognises he is enjoying the best season of his career and his stunning campaign was duly rewarded last night as he was named Chelsea Player of the Year for the first time.
His 33 goals this season have helped Chelsea to the brink of their first double - of the league title and the FA Cup. Chelsea currently lead Manchester United by one point heading into the final game of the season - which sees them play Wigan and the defending champions entertain Stoke.
And Drogba believes it would be a travesty if they are not duly crowned Premier League champions. He said: "Losing the title on the final day? I don't even want to imagine it."
Drogba also revealed that, at the age of 32, he is beginning to turn his attention to a life after football. He added: "I'm starting to think about what I will do after my career."
