Source: SKY_Sports
Excitement builds for Essien
Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien admits he cannot wait for the 2009/10 campaign to get underway.
The Ghana international is more excited than most with the new season fast approaching, having seen last term disrupted by injury.
A serious knee problem kept him sidelined for long periods, preventing him from playing an integral role in Chelsea's pursuit of silverware.
He was back in the side by the time the Blues tasted FA Cup glory over Everton, but Premier League and UEFA Champions League success eluded the club.
Essien is determined to right those wrongs next season and insists he feels in the best possible shape heading into what promises to be an arduous campaign.
Chelsea will kick-start their preparations for the challenges which lie ahead by conducting a four-game American tour over the next few weeks, and their African enforcer is adamant the Blues will be ready when competitive action resumes in August.
"I have had a fantastic break and I am looking forward to the new season already," Essien said on his personal website.
"I am still buzzing from the FA Cup win and Ghana's back-to-back wins in the World Cup qualifiers."
He added: "They were tough games [last season], but we came through very well and I am hoping to carry the same form into the new season starting in the US.
"I am also hoping for an injury-free season and so I can contribute fully to the team.
"At the end of the season I expect us to be up there with the best."
