Essien to stay at Chelsea

Midfielder shrugs off rumours linking him with Inter

By James Dall   Last updated: 8th June 2008

Michael Essien Chelsea Premier League Football

Essien: Staying

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Michael Essien has confirmed that he will remain at Chelsea, amid speculation of a move to Internazionale.

Jose Mourinho's recent appointment as manager of Inter has led to inevitable reports suggesting Essien will reunite with the former Blues boss at the San Siro.

However, Essien, who was brought to Stamford Bridge by Mourinho from Lyon in 2005, has insisted he is looking to next term with Chelsea.

"I will go back to Chelsea for the next season and expect to have a great season," he said in the Sunday Mirror.

Bounce back

"We have shown as a club that we can handle disappointments, and I think we will be able to bounce back next season a better side.

"Most of the guys have gone on holidays and they will put the disappointment of the last season behind them.

"The season generally was very disappointing, but that is football. When you put these things behind you, you become stronger."

Essien's agent Fabien Piveteau added: "The player is very happy in London and still has four years left on his contract, so I don't see that he will be moving for the moment.

"In football anything can happen. But Chelsea are a rich, powerful and ambitious club, and he is happy to play for them."