Essien out to extend Chelsea deal

Ghana international Essien was signed from Lyon for £24m in August 2005 and signed a five-year deal.

"I am very happy in England and love Chelsea," the 24-year-old told the Sunday Mirror. "I would be happy to stay longer than my current contract.

"I am enjoying my football and I'm playing for a great club, and with great players."

Essien has been one of Chelsea's star performers this season, with his all-action displays, and he scored the equaliser against Arsenal on 10 December with a thunderous long-range drive.

He concedes he took time to settle in the top flight after a low-key first campaign for the Premiership champions but added: "All I have ever tried to do is work for the team.

"What I will say is that it does take time to adjust to football in England. It's so much faster and more physical than any other country.

"Maybe that was a problem for me at first but I am used to it now."

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
Chelsea fans' views on 606
BBC London audio
Chelsea weather
BBC Sport Premiership
Chelsea
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites