Drogba: MLS is 'harder than playing in the Premier League'

Following a dazzling debut campaign for the Montreal Impact, former Chelsea star striker Didier Drogba has come to the support of the oft-criticized North American top flight.

"People think it's easy to play there, believe me, it's harder than playing in the Premier League," the Ivorian goal machine told ESPN FC.

"Because of the travel, you can stay at the airport three or four hours if you miss your flight."

A visit to Montreal's nearest MLS competitor necessitates a five-hour drive to visit the New England Revolution or a slightly longer trip down the 401 to Toronto. It makes the once-lengthy five-hour drive to the Premier League's most northern outpost, Newcastle, seem tame in comparison, and the walk to Fulham's Craven Cottage a leisurely stroll.

"That's what makes it hard so as you can see there's not many away wins. And also of course there are also some very good players in this league."

Even with the travel issues, Drogba's first season in MLS was outstanding: He notched 12 goals while leading the Impact to an Eastern Conference semifinals loss to the Columbus Crew.

Often compared to the Turkish top flight as a retirement league for some of Europe's elite, MLS has begun to gain traction overseas courtesy of standout performances from the likes of Drogba and Sebastian Giovinco, compounded by the words of LA Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard, who called the league "a lot better than I initially thought."