Michael Essien is targeting a return to Chelsea's first team after his loan to Real Madrid ends at the end of the season.

The Ghanaian midfielder was sent out on loan following his recovery from a serious knee injury in 2011/12.

After re-find his form at Madrid, Essien is keen to perform once again at Stamford Bridge and is convinced that his time at Real has shown that he can perform at the highest level.

"I will return to Chelsea with my head up and try to win my place back," said Essien.

"I think my loan at Madrid has shown I have still gotten it at the top level," he said.