John
Obi Mikel has quashed 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."
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