Chelsea reward Anelka with an extended contract

The France and Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka may have been sent home from South Africa in disgrace, but he was immediately given a boost on his return by Chelsea, who have given him a one-year extension to his present contract.

The 31 year-old is now committed to the club for another two seasons, and was extremely pleased with his new deal.

“When I first came to Chelsea I wanted to stay much longer than I did in the past with other clubs,” Anelka said. “It is a big club, you play with big players and I like this club, I like London.”

“There is no need to move anymore and so I am very glad to sign a new contract and I know we will play in big games and win titles. I am very glad.”

His boss at Stamford Bridge, Carlo Ancelotti, was also pleased that they came to an agreement. He said: “Nicolas is a fantastic player who has good technical qualities and movement,”

“When I was coach at Juventus I wanted to buy him, so it is good now he has signed for me and I think Chelsea is his home. I look forward to working with him for one year more.”