Essien cool on Chelsea place

Michael Essien is happy with Chelsea's latest sigings, despite the increased competition.

The Portuguese tactician has been busy already in the transfer market, signing Andrei Shevchenko, Solomon Kalou, John Obi Mikel and Michael Ballack, while goalkeeper Hilario and Real Madrid defender Roberto Carlos have been strongly linked with moves to Stamford Bridge.

Essien, Chelsea's record signing until the capture of Shevchenko last month, remains unperturbed by the new acquisitions, despite the increasing rivalry in midfield.

"I feel good about the new players," he said. "We are trying to bring in the best players who can do something for the club so I'm happy.

"I'm confident that I can keep my place but it's up to the boss. I just need to work hard and see what happens."

Essien, who found the back of the net in Ghana's World Cup warm-up match with South Korea, was surprised at the convincing score-line at Easter Road, but is expecting a much tougher test from Group E opponents Italy, USA and Czech Republic.

"We missed some chances against South Korea but we are satisfied with the three goals," Essien added.

"In fact, I was surprised that we scored three because they are a good side.

"We played well and it has done a lot for our confidence.

"We have nothing to lose in Germany. Football is full of surprises and it's up to us to play our football."

Meanwhile, the 23-year-old is expecting England to be in with a chance of tasting glory in Germany this summer after seeing the Three Lions demolish Jamaica at the weekend.

With the possible absence of Wayne Rooney for the entire tournament, Essien is backing Liverpool striker Peter Crouch to shine following some strong showings against Chelsea in the league.

"England have a chance, they have good players, they play good football and they beat Jamaica 6-0 on Saturday," he continued.

"I hope Wayne comes back strongly and plays a part in the team because he's a very good player.

"But Peter Crouch will do well in Germany, he is very difficult to play against.

"He causes trouble any time we play against him at Chelsea."