Mikel admits he is considering leaving Chelsea

Rob Conlon
John Obi Mikel: Midfielder enjoying run in Chelsea side

John Obi Mikel: Midfielder enjoying run in Chelsea side

John Obi Mikel has revealed he could leave Chelsea in the summer unless he is guaranteed first-team football next season.

Mikel has enjoyed a resurgence since Guus Hiddink replaced Jose Mourinho as manager at Stamford Bridge, but with Antonio Conte expected to takeover in the summer, the midfielder is worried he could lose his place once more.

The 28-year-old, who earlier this week hit out at Mourinho, has a year left on his Chelsea contract, but is wary about becoming a bit-part player.

“I have one more season with Chelsea but I know when this season ends, we will definitely sit down and try to sort out whatever needs to be sorted out,” he said.

“If it means me leaving, fine. If it means me staying, then I have to play because one thing I don’t want to do is to sit on the bench like I did before.

“It’s not very nice, especially now when you have kids you just want to do what you can to play. Wherever it is I just want to play. When this season ends we will definitely sort out the contracts.

“Legacy is important and I’m very proud and happy that I’ve kept this legacy to be able to achieve what I have achieved.”