Mikel out for revenge

John Obi Mikel
12 April 2012

Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi insists the Blues must take revenge on Manchester United for two heavy defeats at Old Trafford as the two sides prepare to clash in the game of the season on Saturday.

Chelsea are just one point behind United at the top of the Barclays Premier League but they have suffered some embarrassingly one-sided defeats at Old Trafford in the past two seasons - beaten 3-0 and 2-0 on their last two league visits to the champions. But Chelsea, who have smashed 12 goals in their last two games against Portsmouth and Aston Villa, go into the top-of-the-table clash full of confidence.

"It's about time we went up there and won again because we can do it." said Mikel. "We can go there, play good football and win the game."

He added: "It depends on how we come out to play and fight because it's going to be really difficult but we're ready for it. Hopefully this time it will go our way.

"We have made it clear that we need to win every match and every game we play is a big one but because of where we are in the league, it looks like we're going to have to win it.

"We have got a very difficult schedule for the rest of the season and it has come to the stage where every point is very important but we have to think about Saturday for now."

Meanwhile, Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti admits that Wayne Rooney's absence could allow his side to seize the title initiative from United.

The United striker has scored 35 goals in all competitions, 26 of them in the Barclays Premier League, and his absence at Old Trafford has already given Chelsea a massive incentive.

"Everyone knows how Wayne Rooney is important for this team, he is a fantastic player," said Ancelotti. "He has had a fantastic season but his injury could be an advantage for us.

"He is one of the best in the world right now. He is very professional and his image is very good for football. I like this kind of player. I was sorry for him. But I think without Rooney, for us, it is better."

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