Essien sets Euro trophy target

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Chelsea have reached five semi-finals and one final in the last six years and are desperate to win European football's top trophy. Essien believes the Italian coach, who won two Champions League titles with AC Milan, has all the credentials to lead the Blues to glory in Europe.

"We are already enjoying his company and methods," said Essien. "Everyone knows we have been in five Champions League semi-finals in six years and one final. We are desperate to win the biggest trophy in club football and I strongly believe our new boss can help us do it."

The Ghana midfielder added: "He has been there, done it and got the shirt for it and we are already getting the vibe from him. The squad has been together for a long time and we are all yearning and hungry for more trophies."

Chelsea begin their Barclays Premier League campaign under Ancelotti against Hull at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Striker Nicolas Anelka could be the next player to discuss a contract extension with the club.

Anelka, 30, has played for five clubs in the last seven years but has settled in west London and scored 19 goals in the Premier League last season.

The France frontman has been particularly impressive in pre-season when he played alongside Didier Drogba.

Both Drogba and winger Florent Malouda agreed new contract extensions this summer and Anelka, who has two years left to run on his current deal, may be next in line.

"I think we will be having talks with Chelsea next week about Nicolas' contract," said his agent Doug Pingisi. "Nicolas has two years left on his present contract and I think Chelsea would like to extend it. We plan to sit down and have talks with Chelsea about Nicolas' future."