Mudguards for commuting

I am busy looking at getting a new commuter bike.  To start with, the biggest change I plan to make is to move from a mountain bike to a road frame with 700c rims and drop bars.  I cycle 35km each way, often with a headwind, so the lighter frame and drop bars will probably make a difference.

What I am a little undecided about is the approach I should take to mud flaps.  I am considering the concept of using a frame that has attachments available to use full mudguards on the front and rear wheels, in the hope that will reduce the amount of crud that the wheels throw up into my drive-train.  I will probably stick with a dérailleur-based system, rather than going for an Alfine system, as it just looks like too few bike shops are able to service the Alfine hubs.  As a result I want to try to see if I can protect my drivetrain as much as possible.  Hopefully, mudguards will make a difference.

Can anyone relate experiences, or give their thoughts on their approach to mudguards?

Ciao,

Geoff.