Mikel signs new five-year deal with Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel signed a new five-year contract with the FA Cup winners on Wednesday.

Mikel has become a key figure in the midfield holding role alongside Frank Lampard and Michael Ballack and the Nigerian has been rewarded with an improved deal.

The 22-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge in a controversial transfer from Norwegian side Lyn Oslo in 2006, which angered Manchester United, who claimed they had already agreed a deal with Mikel.

But Mikel, who played in last season’s Cup Final win over Everton, has put that stormy start behind him to make over 100 appearances for the Premier League club.

Mikel told the club’s official website: “It was easy to commit to because I am happy here and when the opportunity came it was good to sign after speaking to the club.”