Essien eyes Blues extension

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien says he is loving life at Stamford Bridge and would like to extend his contract with the Premiership champions.

The 24-year-old Ghana international joined the Blues in the summer of 2005 for £24million from French powerhouse Lyon and is under contract until the summer of 2010.

However, Essien is already eyeing an even longer time with Chelsea.

He told the Sunday Mirror: "I am very happy in England and love Chelsea. I'd 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. 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."

Essien has made 68 appearances for the Blues, scoring five goals.