As kick-off in Chelsea's visit to Eastlands approaches, Felipe Scolari has dismissed the idea that without Robinho, his squad may not be up to this season's challenges.

Our manager maintains his admiration for the Brazilian playmaker but insists the staff available are capable of success, despite losing Michael Essien to a long-term knee injury.

'We forget Robinho. He's one name in the history of Chelsea that the coach says is a good player. Just one name. Not more.

'The decision to buy a player is technical and I say yes or no. But the money? That decision is made by the board. That is not my job.'

'I still have players for these [positions],' he argues as he looks at his attacking options.

'You remember last year Chelsea played Joe Cole, Malouda played many games. There's Didier and Anelka can play left side, right side, inside. I have many players for this and I have a good squad. I have some problems now because of Essien's injury but I try to solve it this week.'

With the Ghana international having damaged his anterior cruciate ligament against Libya in Tripoli, the chance for fringe players to impress is seen as a silver lining by Scolari.

'I have quality. When you have one player who does not play all the time he try to show to the coach and to the fans that he is the best. That is fantastic for me.'

His confidence in the current playing staff should be boosted by these remarks, Scolari firmly burying the lingering interest in the Robinho saga.

'What I know is that Robinho is player for Manchester City. What's happened is better to forget. Life continues.'