CHELSEA boss Carlo Ancelotti has described Petr Cech as one of the best goalkeepers in the world and expects him to bounce back from his recent jitters.

Ancelotti’s men have looked vulnerable from setpieces and Cech’s communication with his defenders has been highlighted after the Barclays Premier League leaders took just nine points from 18 in December.

However, Ancelotti believes errors come from his goalkeeper wanting to take responsibility for his penalty area, which the Italian views as a positive attribute.

‘‘Petr Cech is one of the most important players for this team, one of the best goalkeepers in the world,’’ Ancelotti said.

‘‘I like him because he takes on responsibility in the box, he likes to come out to catch the ball. Above all, that’s important in England, to have this kind of goalkeeper.

‘‘A goalkeeper who takes responsibility can make the odd mistake. But I prefer that to one who just stays on his line and doesn’t take that responsibility.’’ Cech could be in goal against Watford in the FA Cup tomorrow as Ancelotti is set to pick a strong side, having been told about the importance of the competition on his arrival at Stamford Bridge.

‘‘I want to put out my best team,’’ he said. ‘‘It’s a very important competition in England. In Italy, the Italian Cup is not so important.

‘‘We want to do our best. It is one of our objectives, our aim, to win it. Last year we won it. We want to do the best again this year.

‘‘Watford are a good team.

I don’t know them very well, but I have an opportunity to watch a DVD. Every team can give you problems. It is important to stay focused and concentrated.’’ Picking a strong team also means Michael Ballack, who is thought to be close to agreeing a new deal to stay at the club, could start.

‘‘He has a great personality and I’m happy he will stay here for the next years,’’ Ancelotti said.

Chelsea will be without Didier Drogba, John Mikel Obi, Michael Essien and Salomon Kalou, who are at the African Nations Cup.

Losing four players is frustrating for Ancelotti but he would not be put off signing another African player.

He said: ‘‘I think that when they have to play for their national team, it’s not a problem.

‘‘Every top player can go to the national team. It’ll be a great opportunity for the young players now to show their quality. I hope they will do a very good job.”