Mikel hoping Blues bounch back

Chelsea looking to get back to winning ways after cup failure

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 28th February 2008

john obi mikel chelsea

Mikel: Spirits remain high

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John Obi Mikel is determined to help Chelsea put their Carling Cup final disappointment behind them when they face West Ham on Saturday.

The Blues lost 2-1 after extra-time to Tottenham in Sunday's Wembley showpiece and have been widely criticised for their lacklustre display.

With the next seven days set to pitch them against the Hammers at Upton Park, before a vital UEFA Champions League tie with Olympiakos next Wednesday, midfield star Mikel has reiterated that the sprit among the squad remains high and that everyone is determined to get back to winning ways as soon as possible.

Disappointed

"It has been good, we just have to put what happened behind us and make sure we move forward and everything from here goes well," the Nigerian international told Chelsea's official website.

"We had a talk among ourselves as players, and we know we could have done better in the cup final.

"It was obviously disappointing, so we have to make sure we come back victorious."

Competition

With manager Avram Grant's team selection for the Spurs clash being called into question, Mikel admits that he appreciates the problems his coach faces when trying to choose between a squad brimming with world class talent.

"There is a lot of competition in the team now, and you have to know that you can't play every game," he said.

"There are a lot of big players, good players. Everyone in the team is a good player, and you can't keep them out for a long time."

Vital

This weekend's encounter with West Ham gives Chelsea the opportunity to record a league double over the Hammers following a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge back in December.

With the Blues currently languishing nine points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal, Mikel feels it is imperative that they manage to claim all three points again this time around.

"I think the game at Stamford Bridge was a good one, and we played very well," he said.

"We have to go to Upton Park and make sure we play well and take the three points."