Midfielder Michael Essien has signed a new five-year contract with Chelsea.

The Ghana international, 24, moved to Stamford Bridge from French side Lyon for £24m in August 2005 and is now committed to the club until 2012.

"It didn't take me long to decide to sign," said Essien, who has made 46 appearances for Chelsea this season.

"I am really happy because I came here to stay a long time. I work really hard and do everything to succeed. I have the ambition to win a lot of trophies."

Essien, who scored an own goal during Sunday's 3-3 FA Cup draw with Tottenham, is so highly rated by Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho that he has only missed one match for the club so far this campaign.

The Ghana international has impressed with his versatility by filling in in midfield and defence.

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon said after Essien's put pen to paper on a new deal: "We are delighted to have him.

"We spent a summer getting him, it wasn't easy, and it is nice to be on the next step.

"He is recognised as one of the new gems to have joined the Premiership. He enjoys London and is settled."