Didier Drogba believes Chelsea now have the mental edge over their rivals for the Barclays Premier League title.
Drogba - whose brace at Emirates Stadium on Sunday sealed a 3-0 win over Arsenal and restored the Blues' five point advantage over Manchester United at the top of the table - believes victories over all three of their traditional rivals this season, without conceding, shows Carlo Ancelotti's men have the making of champions.
"Arsenal played their game, but we were stronger than them," said the Ivory Coast international, who now has 10 goals in 11 games against the Gunners.
"Every time we had the chance to score we did. We took our chances. Physically we defended well and were really strong, mentally as well.
"I don't know about Arsenal, but it is our strength to perform when it matters. Even against Manchester United, when the game was really difficult, we won.
"We know how to go through difficult periods when the game is hard. That is why when we get a chance we know how important it is to score."
Despite confidence in his team-mates, Drogba, 31, knows full well the battle for the championship is not yet won.
"The lead is not enough, but at the same time it's a good gap. We have to keep winning our games," said Drogba, one of several Chelsea players who will be away at the African Nations Cup during January.
"When you are top of the league, it is good -- the others have to chase us. They have to produce and do more than us to win games.
"It is true that Manchester United are still there. We were in their position last year, behind and chasing. It is very difficult and now they have to come and catch us."
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