Mikel: New signings will help Blues

Posted Monday, September 10, 2012 by ESPN

Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has backed his club's new signings to shine for the Blues.

Chelsea were the Premier League's highest spenders during the summer, spending an approximate total of £88 million on new signings including the likes of Eden Hazard, Marko Marin, Oscar and Victor Moses.

These new signings have greatly impressed Mikel and given the Nigeria international renewed cause for optimism that the Blues can challenge for the title this season.

"They're all very good, very talented players in different ways," Mikel was quoted as saying on Chelsea's official website.

"Everyone has been talking about Eden, but Marko has been injured unfortunately.

"Oscar will contribute as well. For this short period of working with the team people have already seen what they can do.

"Victor Moses is a good guy. He has come in and he's a bit shy but as time goes on he will settle in.

"He's a fantastic player, a good addition to the team and when he settles he can show off what he can do. He's very skilful.

"They will all be great additions."

The 25-year-old, whose last goal for the club was back in early 2007, also admitted he was concerned about his goal drought but justified it as a drawback to playing as a defensive midfielder.

'It bothers me a bit," Mikel mused.

"I'm not always in a position to score, so I don't score, that's the truth. I've always had to sit back and keep the shape.

"When I go forward nobody will cover for me so the midfield is open. I hope people see this because I don't know when that goal is going to come! I think I would have to change my position slightly to score goals."

The former Lyn Oslo player may have played against many quality midfielders in his time at the club so far but Mikel pinpointed Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard as the hardest opponent he has ever come up against.

"I think the toughest I played against is Steven Gerrard," he added.

"I think he's very tough, the way he goes about his game. He doesn't give the ball to you, he's skilful and technically sound.

"He doesn't shy away from tackles and he gets stuck in. He's the one."

Mikel joined Chelsea in a controversial transfer in 2006 and has since then made 239 appearances for the club, scoring only two goals in the process.