LONDON – From Omobolaji Oyegunle Super Eagles captain Mikel John Obi has revealed that he is staying at Chelsea and is eyeing a new deal at the club.
The Nigeria captain has been targeted by teams in China, Turkey and the Middle East this summer but, after a decade at the club, is determined to fight for his place under new manager Antonio Conte.
The 29-year-old said: “I am definitely staying at Chelsea and I will try to give my best to the club, like I have always done.
“I want to help the team fight for every point, every win and to win trophies. I also want to help the team qualify for the Champions League again as soon as possible.
“For 10 years I have been going to the same training ground, the same locker room. It is an amazing club, with an amazing owner. They are like a family to me. It is a place that has become a part of me.”
The midfielder, who wants to be referred to as Mikel John Obi from now on, has 12 months left on his contract.
He hopes to convince the club to offer an extension but insists he will not hold any grudges if he ends up leaving on a free transfer.
“I have a year left and then we will see what happens,” he said. “If I play well this season, it will help me earn a new contract.
“I will give 120 per cent every time I’m on the pitch or come off the bench. I will always give my best.
“If Chelsea decides they want to talk, then we will talk.
“If I have to move on, I’m sure there will be plenty of clubs out there where I can continue my football career.
“It will be difficult to leave but these things happen. You have to move on one day.
“My happy memories of Chelsea will never go away.”
