Malouda ready for testing time

Malouda: Flying start

Florent Malouda is hoping to help Chelsea underline their superiority and silence their doubters.

"People don't believe what we have done up until now has been that great because they say we have had easy games. This will show we're ready for any kind of opposition."
Florent Malouda on Chelsea's 100 per cent start Quotes of the week

The reigning Premier League champions have enjoyed a flying start to the 2010/11 campaign, boasting a 100 per cent record five games into the season.

During those fixtures they have plundered 21 goals, proving that they are once again the team to beat in the English top flight.

There have, however, been suggestions that a favourable fixture list has played into their hands.

French winger Malouda, who has been in red hot form, does not buy into that belief, but is adamant that Chelsea can further underline their credentials with impressive showings in upcoming contests with Manchester City and Arsenal.

Pressure

He said: "People don't believe what we have done up until now has been that great because they say we have had easy games. This will show we're ready for any kind of opposition.

"A lot of people see these two games as a test but we're ready. For us it could be our opportunity to prove that we're champions and we will defend our title at any price. Both will be tough opponents but we have confidence in ourselves and the way we are working.

"We're trying to improve on what we did last season. We didn't come back thinking we are champions so it will be easy. We know there is going to be pressure but we have experienced players who are ready to handle that. We're much better under pressure so now we just have to stay calm.

"Manchester City were the only team to do the double over us last season and that could be a big motivation for us. I know they're getting better and bought a lot of good players.

"We're aware that the season is long and you don't win anything in September. We have to carry on and keep our focus.

Balance

"I know it's going to be tight until the end of the season and when the other teams drop points we must try to take the opportunity. We're ready to succeed, that's why in training we work very hard.

"There are always compliments when you win and scoring lots of goals but if you lose balance you can always have a bit of a surprise."

Malouda has played a leading role for the Blues so far this term, notching six goals, but insists he has not set any targets and has played down any suggestion that he could top Didier Drogba in the club's scoring charts.

"By the end of the season Didier will be far ahead of me," he added.

"I can compete but not over a long time."