Ghanaian international Michael Essien is planning a comeback at Chelsea next season.

During the 2011/12 league campaign, Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien suffered a ligament rupture which kept him out of action for nearly six months. He went on to make only 14 Premier League appearances.

The following season (2012/13), Real Madrid enquired about him on a potential season-long loan deal – which was accepted. He went on to make 21 appearances, scoring two goals.

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, formerly of Real Madrid, was the man who brought the midfielder to Madrid last season. His spell with the Spanish outfit went well, and Essien’s fitness and form have both dramatically improved.

‘I will return to Chelsea with my head up and try to win my place back. I think my loan at Madrid has shown I have still got it at the top level. I have got my energy back and I feel I can do a job for the team again.’ – Michael Essien.

This summer has already seen the 30-year old attracting interest from French Ligue One champions Paris Saint-Germain. However, it appears Chelsea are keen to hold on to him for the coming season.

Essien’s return will mean question marks hanging over John Obi Mikel’s future.

The Nigerian defensive-midfielder pictured made 19 league starts last season, and found himself frequently criticised for his performances. Turkish side Galatasaray are reported to be preparing a bid for the 26-year old, which could be considered by Chelsea.

The relationship between Essien and Mourinho could be the nail in the coffin which would see Mikel exiting the club.

Essien has always spoken out of his admiration for the Portugese manager. Calling him ‘daddy’, the pair are said to get on well off the pitch. Under Mourinho’s reign, the 30-year old was part of the Chelsea side who enjoyed their best years of success, and Mourinho sees Essien as paramount to their potential success.