Mikel ready to rise to occasion

JOHN MIKEL OBI insists he is relishing the pressure of anchoring Chelsea’s midfield as the Blues look to continue their 100 per cent away record at the expense of Everton tonight.

Chelsea’s record-breaking away run is in stark contrast to their form at Stamford Bridge. Luiz Felipe Scolari’s side have dropped 14 points at home so far this season and, while injuries and suspensions have played their part, the loss of powerhouse midfielder Michael Essien with a serious knee injury has also been a factor.

But the man handed the role of replacing him has risen to the challenge in style and Mikel has cemented his place under the Brazilian coach.

The 21-year-old Nigerian is now determined to repay Scolari’s faith in him by helping the club to win some silverware this season.

“The coach said to me ‘you are this team — when you don’t play well, the team doesn’t play well’,” said Mikel.

“It puts pressure on me but good pressure because I think it shows he’s pleased with me and thinks I can live up to the task.”

Chelsea will face Everton with no fresh injury woes and Scolari certain to stick with Nicolas Anelka as the lone striker.

On the training ground, the Brazilian coach has been trying to establish a way of accommodating Didier Drogba and Anelka in the same side.

But the fruits of those labours are unlikely to be seen against the Toffees. Instead, it will likely have to wait until the home clash against West Brom on Boxing Day.

“I have 23 players in good condition,” said Scolari. “I am happy now and have time to start and stop my training, change systems, explain to my players why this or why that, it is very good for us.”

Everton, meanwhile, have confirmed they will consider speaking with referees’ chief Keith Hackett if they feel Marouane Fellaini continues to be unfairly treated.

The club’s record £15million signing has been booked eight times this season, including in each of his last three matches.

However, Everton feel on a number of occasions the bookings have been more to do with Fellaini being an imposing figure, and the fact he stands out with his shock of black curly hair.

Following one recent encounter they were forced to voice concerns to the match officials, and if it persists they may yet contact Hackett, the Premier League head of referees.

“He (Fellaini) is disappointed with how many bookings he has received,” said assistant manager Steve Round.

EVERTON (4-4-1-1, likely): Howard, Neville, Yobo, Jagielka, Lescott, Osman, Pienaar, Fellaini, Arteta; Cahill, Anichebe.

CHELSEA (4-1-3-1-1, likely): Cech, Bosingwa, Alex, Terry, A Cole,Mikel, Ballack, Lampard, Deco, J Cole, Anelka.