Mikel Obi: After Man U 'we have to beat Shrimpers'

Last updated : 13 January 2009 By Shrimpers24
Midfielder Mikel Obi played his 16th full league game of the season against Man. United and couldn't hide his frustration at the result.

Speaking to the Chelsea official site: "We are all disappointed today. We are football players, top football players, and no one likes losing. You get things wrong like this and it depends how we get on with it and try to fix everything right now. In this time we have to show our strong character, remain as a family and get things right. They didn't play that well, but we conceded goals from set pieces, it isn't good enough. This season we haven't really conceded goals from open play. I've counted and they are all set pieces, corners, free-kicks, throw-ins, or crosses. It's something we have to work on. The only one I can think of is against Arsenal which was offside anyway." (!)

What this means now for his side and manager is that the replay on Wednesday evening has taken on more significance beyond simple cup progression. Chelsea have already experienced Southend's never-say-die spirit but none of the present side have played at Roots Hall, one of the more compact stadiums they would have visited since the West Londoners played Wycombe Wanderers in the Carling Cup two seasons ago.

Mikel continued: "It helps to have a game so soon, it is a good game to go out and make sure we win. It's a good game to go out and make sure we win. I haven't been there, it will be there, it will be my first team, I know the manager wants a rest a couple of players, but I am 21 and want to play every game. It depends, we will see, and I want to go out there and see what it looks like to play in those surroundings, where the facilities are not so good. It will be a good game, and we have to win."