Mikel John Obi believes the appointment of Luis Felipe Scolari as the new Chelsea boss is the "kind of presence" required.

The Brazilian replaced Avram Grant last month and is held in high regard by the 21-year-old, who is keen to remain in the reckoning under the new coach despite the embarrassment of riches in the Blues' midfield.

"He is an experienced manager, he knows what he is doing and he's been in the game for a long time so I am sure we will win a lot of trophies with him," Mikel told www.kickoffnigeria.com.

"He's the kind of presence we need in the Chelsea dressing room."

The arrival of Portugal midfielder Deco adds to a midfield that already includes the likes of Frank Lampard, Michael Ballack and Michael Essien, meaning Mikel may face a battle to hold down a first-team place next season.

However, the former Lyn Oslo star admits he is looking forward to starting afresh under Scolari.

He added: "It's a new beginning for everybody. We will all have to start from scratch - for everyone, it's a fresh start."