MANILA, Philippines – Fresh from Chelsea’s European Cup triumph, Didier Drogba ran with the Olympic torch as it continued its journey around the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.

The striker was cheered by Chelsea fans and curious locals as the torch was paraded in Swindon.

Dressed all in white, the Ivorian star jogged for 300 meters along the route before handing over the torch to the next bearer.

The 34-year-old has announced his intention to leave Chelsea after winning two trophies this season – the FA Cup and the European Cup.

He has been strong linked to a swansong at Chinese team Shanghai Shenhua, where it has been reported he could net wages of around 200,000 pounds per week. Mornings @ ANC, May 24, 2012