Essien urges Drogba deal

Blues ace pleads with team-mate to sign new deal

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 22nd July 2008

michael essien didier drogba chelsea

Drogba & Essien: Vital to Chelsea's cause

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Michael Essien is hoping that Didier Drogba will become the next player to commit his future to Chelsea.

Ghana international Essien penned a new five-year deal with the Blues on Tuesday, ensuring that he will remain at the club until 2013.

His decision follows in the footsteps of full-back Wayne Bridge and keeper Petr Cech who have both agreed contract extensions in recent weeks.

However, Ivory Coast hit-man Drogba is yet to follow suit, fuelling speculation that the 30-year-old may be on the verge of a move elsewhere.

Needed

Essien is hoping that does not prove to be the case and has urged his team-mate to stay at Stamford Bridge.

"Hopefully things will work out for Didier because we need him to stay," said Essien.

"If he can make up his mind it will be good for us. He knows what he wants so it is up to him."

Pleased

Essien, who arrived at the Blues from Lyon in 2005, is adamant that he has made the right decision by choosing to stay in West London.

"I am really pleased to sign a new contract with Chelsea," added the 25-year-old.

"I came here to stay longer, I like the team and I love the fans and I think we have got a great squad. I did not consider any other options, I love playing for Chelsea."

Best

The combative midfielder is also confident that the club can recapture the winning ways of their not too distant past now that World Cup-winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is in the managerial hot seat.

"We have one of the best coaches in the world," said Essien.

"He has a different way of working so hopefully things will work for us."