By Akyereko Frimpong-Manson
Michael Essien is desperate to repay Chelsea for their faith in giving him a new contract despite series of injuries that has kept him out for almost one season.
The Ghanaian midfielder missed majority of last season after a complicated cruciate ligament tear but has been barnstorming for the English champions since his return to action this term.
And fully-fit and back to his best with three goals already this season, Essien admits he feels lucky and happy with the confidence reposed in him by Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti.
"I’ve had two serious injuries; I’m glad I can go forward now," Essien told The Fulham Chronicle
"Those kind of injuries can end your career, so I’m lucky enough to be back. Now I’ll put everything behind me.
"I think I am a lucky guy. I’ve never seen that before: a player who has been out for six months and they (the club) decide to give him a new contract. He declared
"That means they have great confidence in me when I’m fit, that I can go out and help their team. I am delighted. I think I have to pay the club back with my performance." Essien continued