Essien handed new Blues deal

04 June 2010 17:27
Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has signed a two-year contract extension to tie him to the west London club until at least 2015.[LNB] Essien is currently sidelined with a knee injury that has ruled him out of the World Cup, and he has not featured for Chelsea since suffering a hamstring injury in December.[LNB]The Ghana star was therefore delighted by the faith shown in him by the club.[LNB]"I am delighted because the club has shown a very big confidence and interest in me," he said.[LNB]"I am looking forward to coming back and enjoying my football and winning more trophies with the club. That is why I am here. I think it is one of the most important contracts in my career."[LNB]Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti says Essien remains an integral part of his plans as he bids to build on his side's Double-winning campaign of last season.[LNB]"I am very happy that Michael has agreed to extend his time with us, as it means he will continue to be a very important player for Chelsea long into the future," Ancelotti told Chelsea's official website.[LNB]Essien has made 185 appearances and scored 22 goals for Chelsea since arriving in a £26million deal from Lyon in 2005.

Source: Team_Talk