We’ve put cup final heartache behind us, insists Mikel

MIKEL JOHN OBI claims Chelsea’s players have talked their Carling Cup final defeat out of their systems as they prepare to return to Barclays Premier League action against West Ham tomorrow.

The Nigerian international played the full 120 minutes against Tottenham at Wembley last Sunday – and despite a training-ground row between Henk ten Cate and captain John Terry the day before the final, Mikel says the spirit in the squad remains upbeat.

Chelsea were beaten 2-1 in extra-time – and while the preparation for the final may have been hampered by speculation over the involvement of Terry and England colleague Frank Lampard, Mikel says the players are determined to make sure they win some silverware this term.