Mikel seeks more success

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel is ready to hold off the threat from new signing Ramires by insisting he can help the club retain their Barclays Premier League title.

Mikel's position in the holding midfield role will be contested by Ramires, who joined from Benfica in an £18.2million move last week.

"I feel at home at Chelsea," said Mikel. "When I signed I was only 19 and looking back I have really enjoyed my four years at the club. In that time I have learned a lot, gained more experience and I know how to read the game better."

He added: "After all that time playing for a team like this in a league like this, you'll always be better for it."

Mikel's position allows Michael Essien and Frank Lampard to get forward and support the attack, and while Ramires can play in any of the three positions, it is the Nigerian midfielder who will be feeling the heat.

But he is purely focused on helping Chelsea retain the title and paid to tribute to coach Carlo Ancelotti for his faith in him.

"I'm very happy playing under Carlo Ancelotti. After a season together I feel I know him well. He's a manager I can speak to, in many ways he's like a father. He gives me great confidence.

"Winning the Premier League was the big one to add to my list. I had won every other domestic trophy since arriving at Chelsea in the summer of 2006.

"But it took until May this year to get my first Premier League winners' medal. It's fantastic to have been able to win all those things by the age of 23 but I suppose that is the benefit of starting your career early.

"I know there are a lot of great players out there who haven't won any of those things. I feel very happy and very blessed. The next one to add is the Champions League."