Johnson: Crespo is our champion
Glen Johnson believes that new signing Hernan Crespo can win the Champions League for Chelsea.
The Argentine striker was unveiled at half-time in last night's 3-0 win over MSK Zilina after finally completing his £16.8million move from Inter Milan.
Johnson scored Chelsea's opening goal, his first in senior football, as Claudio Ranieri's side secured their place in the Champions League and is backing Crespo to spearhead the club's European campaign.
He said: "Crespo could really make the difference for us this season and win us the Champions League.
"I've seen Crespo play and everyone knows a lot about him. He's a different class. I can't wait until he gets settled in and starts banging in the goals for us."
Chelsea will not be seeded in tomorrow's draw and could be paired with some of the biggest names in European football, but Johnson is confident they can beat anyone.
He said: "It'd be nice to play Real Madrid. It'd be fantastic to come up against some of their world-class players. They're the biggest team in the world and it'd be great to knock them out in the next round.
"I'm confident we could do that. Everyone's got a chance haven't they? I was talking to Joe Cole today and we're both enjoying every minute of it."
Ranieri sounded a more cautious note but was delighted to have finally secured the services of Crespo. The 29-year-old has signed a four-year contract and should be available for Saturday's Premiership game against Blackburn.
He said: "Crespo is a great player and a good leader on the pitch. He's a new champion for us. He is a fantastic striker and could be very important to the team. I will try and speak to the Italian FA about whether he can play on Saturday."
Chelsea are still pursuing their interest in Claude Makelele but Ranieri hinted that his £95m spending spree is almost over. He added: "I think this is the end but have left the door open a little. The important thing is to get the right players. If I can pick well then we may not need any more."
