Chelsea Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Mikel agrees Blues extension

23 Jul 2009 - 08:33:05

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Chelsea's holding midfielder John Obi Mikel has pledged his long-term future to the club by signing a new five-year contract at Stamford Bridge.

The 22-year-old Nigeria international joined the Blues in 2006 from Lyn Oslo and has since racked up 130 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions.

Mikel told the club's official website: "It was easy to commit to because I am happy here and when the opportunity came, it was good to sign after speaking to the club.

"My future with the new manager will be bright and I think we have a good working relationship already.

"All the managers I have played for here have their own type of systems they want us to play, and whoever comes in will want to change little bits and pieces.

"There is not much to change, but they all bring in different views and the new manager wants us to play in a certain formation which we need to get used to before the season starts.

"The new formation doesn't make too much difference to me in defensive midfield, but perhaps it is a little harder as I have to cover more ground for the team.

"But I feel I am up to the task and I am sure I can do it."