The Ukrainian has scored four times in 33 league matches since joining from AC Milan for £30million in the summer of 2006. However, he believes he can increase his strike-rate as the Blues look to put themselves back into contention for Barclays Premier League glory after a slow start.

He said: "I'm a realist and I understand that you don't get dozens of chances in a game. But I'm planning to score 15 to 20 goals in the Premier League this season."

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Shevchenko is also backing manager Avram Grant who succeeded Jose Mourinho after the Portuguese tactician left the club just over two weeks ago.

"As for Grant, it's not as if he has just arrived, everyone here knows him and likes him," added Shevchenko. "The players are now ready to support the manager in what is not an easy situation.

"Everything is good, everything is calm. Chelsea are a strong unit and everyone is supportive of everyone else, on and off the pitch."