Didier Drogba honoured by Football Writers' Association.

Jose Mourinho led the tributes to Didier Drogba on Sunday evening as the Chelsea striker was honoured for his outstanding contribution to the game by the Football Writers' Association.

The Blues boss hailed Drogba, who first joined Chelsea for £24million in 2004, as the club's 'best value player ever' as the Ivorian attended the FWA's Gala Tribute evening at the Savoy Hotel in London.

Dressed smartly in a blue suit and bow tie, the veteran striker followed the likes of Mourinho, Sir Alex Ferguson and David Beckham by picking up the prestigious award.

Speaking to the Football Writers' Association, Mourinho said: 'I came to Chelsea in the summer of 2004 and in my first written report to Mr Abramovich in relation to my plans for the club, I gave the names of some players.

'Big names were arriving at Chelsea in that period. The previous summer, for example, Claude Makelele came from Real Madrid and Hernan Crespo came from Inter, among others, but Didier was unknown and the price was very, very high.

'Yet I knew as clearly as I have ever done that he was the player I wanted.

'I was very strong to persuade my club to pay such an amount for him and I think we can already say he was the best-value signing for Chelsea in relation to what he has done for the club over so many years, and he is not finished yet.'

Drogba has been recognised for his impressive performances on the pitch over the last 16 years and also his charity work away from it, with his foundation having funded many projects in his homeland of the Ivory Coast. 

The 36-year-old, who started in Chelsea's shock 4-2 defeat by Bradford on Saturday, expressed his gratitude at being picked as this year's recipient.

Speaking in November last year, the former Marseille man said: 'It is an incredible honour. I have looked at the list of people who have been given this award and there are some of the most famous names in football on it.

'To be invited to join them is so special and I can't wait for the night.'

Mourinho also revealed that he counts Drogba as his favourite player, describing him as a 'phenomenal' person.

Mourinho added: 'Throughout my career, I have always refused to say which is my favourite player or the best person, because so many have given soul and blood to play and to fight with me, but if I have to choose one who represents all the good things you want in a player and a man, I think in this moment I would choose Didier.'