John Obi Mikel makes debut for Chelsea

Chelsea midfielder, John Obi Mikel made his debut for the English Premier League defending champions nine years ago yesterday, Wednesday, August 12 in 2006.

Chelsea signed the then promising midfielder in the summer of 2006 after a protracted contract saga that involved Manchester United.

Mikel had appeared at a Manchester United conference with a Red Devils' shirt but after the lengthy legal wrangles, Chelsea eventually emerged with their prize - at a cost of £4million to Lyn and £12m to United

After initially struggling at Stamford Bridge, Mikel became a pivotal part of the Chelsea team that won a host of major titles.

His finest performance to date for the club came in the UEFA Champions League final, against Bayern Munich, the greatest night in Chelsea's history.

He was arguably man of the match on that day, although Didier Drogba's brilliant equaliser and cup-winning penalty kick overshadowed him on that day.

Mikel has however become a but-part player at Chelsea due to the arrival of Nemanja Matic last year.

He was reportedly close to a move away from the club this summer but was stopped by Jose Mourinho who still has him in his plans.

John Mikel Obi has scored four goals for Chelsea.

John Obi Mikel's trophy cabinet

English Premier League (2009-10)

FA Cup x 4 (2007, 09, 10, 12)

League Cup (2007)

Champions League (2012)

Europa League (2013)

Watch his goals and skills, below: