Essien defends the Chelsea old brigade after Ferguson attack on squad

Michael Essien has rejected Sir Alex Ferguson's claim that Chelsea will struggle to progress this season because of the age of some players in their squad.

The 25-year-old Ghana midfielder, who signed a new five-year deal on Tuesday, insisted the experience of the Stamford Bridge old guard will help them seize the title back from Manchester United.

Essien believes the influence of Chelsea's '30 and over' brigade can only help their chances. Asked who will win the league, Essien replied: 'For me, only Chelsea. Chelsea will win the title this year. Players like Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard and Deco are world class. As you can see in training and in matches, they can always change a game.'

Determined to take the title: Chelsea's Michael Essien

'They're not the same kind of player. Everybody has his own style of play and they help the team a lot. We've got this mentality of winning. They've had it already. That'll be good for us. They're bad losers, like me. Everybody wants to win.'

Countering Ferguson's argument that Chelsea will struggle to develop given the average age of their squad, Essien added: 'To train and play alongside that kind of player, you improve a lot. We have a lot of world-class players and it's a privilege for me to work under them and improve with them every day.'

Chief executive Peter Kenyon said the plan to bring in some young blood with the capture of Real Madrid playmaker Robinho is likely to be Chelsea's final transfer this summer.

Confirming Chelsea's interest in the 24-year-old, Kenyon said: 'I think as far as Robinho is concerned it is quite right he has been one of our targets.

'We have had several conversations with Madrid and he is a player we think would add a great deal to Chelsea.

'We have got a fantastic squad and that has been strengthened with Jose Bosingwa and Deco and I think the coach Luiz Felipe Scolari was just looking for one more to complete what he thinks is the perfect squad.'