He was a key figure in Jose Mourinho's first title-winning era at Chelsea, and his influence has been felt a decade later with the new breed at Stamford Bridge.

Didier Drogba was paid the ultimate tribute by his teammates Sunday when they carried him off the field to mark his final appearance in the royal blue shirt, having been given the captain's armband by regular skipper John Terry.

The Ivory Coast veteran bowed out in the 29th minute against Sunderland in a prearranged substitution, having announced before the closing game of Chelsea's Premier League-winning campaign that he is leaving for a second time. Reports have linked him with a move to the U.S. Major League Soccer competition.

The 37-year-old hopes to extend his career by one more season, having come back to London last year as a bit-part squad player -- a shadow of the striker who terrorized defenses across European and at international level, but a key element in Mourinho's big plan.

"He was part of the other team but he is also part of the new Chelsea," the Portuguese coach said after a 3-1 victory left Chelsea eight points clear of second-placed Manchester City.

"He was very good for the young players like Hazard, Willian and Oscar -- they learn from good examples and he made a fantastic contribution for us this season."