Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has said that he is hopeful of impressing Antonio Conte after helping Nigeria win the bronze medal at the Olympic Games.
Mikel has spent the last two-and-a-half weeks with his national team in Brazil but upon his return to Stamford Bridge, the long-term Blues midfielder has admitted that he is determined to break back into the first team under the club's new manager.
The 29-year-old told the club's official website: "It's provided me with a nice lift as I return to Chelsea. I will go back to see the manager and see what his plans are for me. I want to get back into training and prove myself. I want to play and help the team to win games.
"I know it will be difficult because I have missed most of pre-season and the coach has a new way of playing. But it is a positive thing for me that I have been playing well in Brazil and I'm in good shape.
"I will need a few days off first because this tournament has been so draining. I arrive back in London on Wednesday morning and the game against Burnley on Saturday will come too early to feature in."
Mikel made 33 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions last season.
Darren Plant
