Source: Team_Talk
Essien handed new Blues deal
Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has signed a two-year contract extension to tie him to the west London club until at least 2015. 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.The Ghana star was therefore delighted by the faith shown in him by the club."I am delighted because the club has shown a very big confidence and interest in me," he said."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."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."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.Essien has made 185 appearances and scored 22 goals for Chelsea since arriving in a £26million deal from Lyon in 2005.