I Am Not Leaving Chelsea – Mikel Obi
“I want to help the team fight for every point, every win and to win trophies. I also want to help the team qualify for the Champions League again as soon as possible,” Mikel said
John Obi Mikel has rubished reports he is to leave Chelsea insisting he will stay and fight for his place, and a new contract.
The Nigeria international was reported to be subject of interest from a number of Chinese clubs, but has said he will continue his career at Stamford Bridge next season.
“I want to help the team fight for every point, every win and to win trophies. I also want to help the team qualify for the Champions League again as soon as possible,” Mikel said in an interview with the Evening Standard.
“For 10 years I have been going to the same training ground, the same locker room. It is an amazing club, with an amazing owner. They are like a family to me. It is a place that has become a part of me.”
Mikel is one of the longest serving players at Chelsea – making over 240 appearances across 10 seasons – and as he enters the last 12 months of his contract the midfielder is keen to prove his worth to new manager Antonio Conte.
“I have a year left and then we will see what happens. If I play well this season, it will help me earn a new contract,” he said.
“I will give 120 per cent every time I’m on the pitch or come off the bench. I will always give my best.”