Essien signs new Chelsea deal

Chelsea and Ghana international midfielder Michael Essien has decided to stay with the club and put pen to paper on a lucrative five year deal to keep him at Stamford Bridge.

"I am very happy here; we have a great team and fantastic fans who have always made me welcome," Essien told the club website (www.chelseafc.com).

"With the addition of the new manager, I am feeling very confident about the season ahead."

"Michael Essien is one of the best midfield players in the world. I have always admired him and it is good for me and for Chelsea that he signs for so long," said new boss Scolari.