LONDON - Didier Drogba believes Chelsea will prove they can last the pace in the Premier League title race by brushing aside fellow FA Cup finalists Everton today.

LONDON - Didier Drogba believes Chelsea will prove they can last the pace in the Premier League title race by brushing aside fellow FA Cup finalists Everton today.

With three trophies still in their sights, Guus Hiddink's team have no time to rest on their laurels after Saturday's FA Cup semifinal win over Arsenal.

Hiddink admits beating Everton in the final on May 30 would be the perfect way to end his brief reign as Chelsea manager before resuming his full-time post as Russia coach.

The Blues trail Manchester United by four points and the leaders have a game in hand, so there is no margin for error.

Chelsea's task is made harder by the frantic nature of their fixture list from now until that Wembley date with Everton. But Drogba is convinced they are strong enough, mentally and physically, to last the pace.

"When you go to the end of the season there are big games all the time and when you play at Chelsea you have to perform in them if you want to win trophies," he said.

While the odds are against Chelsea in the league, it would be foolish to completely write them off while Drogba is in such fearsome form.

The Ivory Coast forward has scored eight goals in his last nine games including Saturday's winner against Arsenal, and looks back to his imposing best after a frustrating season.

Drogba acknowledges Hiddink's contribution to his revival but believes he only ever needed to play regularly to rediscover his goal-scoring touch.

Everton should be in buoyant mood after Sunday's penalty shootout win over United clinched their first FA Cup final appearance since 1995.

David Moyes's side stayed in London after beating United to prepare for today's match and Phil Jagielka, who hit Everton's winning penalty, can't wait to score a few psychological points ahead of the final. - Sapa-AFP