Mikel not scared of competition

Midfielder ready to fight for place

By Giscard Gourizro   Last updated: 27th June 2008

Mikel not scared of competition

Mikel: Not afraid

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John Obi Mikel is aware of the speculation linking several top players with moves to Chelsea, but is ready to fight for his place in the side.

Luiz Felipe Scolari has been appointed as manager at Stamford Bridge and the Brazilian is expected to make a number of signings before the start of the new season.

The likes of Ronaldinho, Deco, Rafael van der Vaart and Ricardo Quaresma have all been mentioned as possible transfer targets.

There is already fierce competition for places in midfield but Mikel is not worried about who may or may not arrive.

"I am not afraid to hear about one player or another coming to Chelsea," Mikel told brilafm.net.

"It's something that makes me stronger. You should know that I would have left Chelsea long ago if I had been scared or something like a chicken-hearted player."

No expectations

Mikel has never had any dealings with Scolari and is unsure what he will bring to the club.

He said: "I don't know him and I have not met him before.

"I don't even know what to expect from the coach because we have not spoken yet. I will only be able to know something about him when we meet during pre-season."

Mikel has also praised Blues team-mate Michael Ballack for leading Germany to the final of Euro 2008.

"Ballack is a top player, I am always learning things from him," he said.

"He is a top, top player, he can do everything. I am not too far from his level and when I reach there I will be very proud."