Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has played down comparisons between him and ex-club mate Claude Makelele, claiming that he is a different player to the recently departed Frenchman.
"I don't think we are the same kind of players. We play in different ways but all respect to him, I think he is a great guy and was a great player for this team," Mikel said.
The Nigerian has found himself thrust into action this season after the departure of Makelele, and also the long-term injury suffered by Michael Essien on international duty.
Mikel insists he doesn't feel any pressure in filling in for both of them, and acknowledges that this could a pivotal season for him.
"This season will hopefully be my season," he declared.
"The new manager has come in and he has seen me play and he likes how I play. I knew from the beginning of the season that things are going to start happening and I hope that it is going to keep going."
"I don't feel any pressure, especially when you play under a manager like Mr. Scolari. He knows you have more confidence when the manager believes in you. He knows you can do it and I always try to make sure I don't disappoint him by giving him what he wants."
While Mikel can attribute his run in the side to Essien's absence, he hopes that the Ghanaian will be back in action sooner rather than later.
"I wish him the best of luck and wish he was here with us to play tomorrow [against Portsmouth]. We are all supporting him and hopefully he will be able to join us soon again. We miss him."
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