The Ghana international cannot wait for the action to start all over again, having missed a large chunk of the last campaign because of a serious knee injury.

Essien said: "I have had a fantastic break and I am looking forward to the new season already.

"I am still buzzing from the FA Cup win and Ghana's back-to-back wins in the World Cup qualifiers.

"They were tough games, but we came through very well and I am hoping to carry the same form into the new season starting in the US.

"I am also hoping for an injury-free season so I can contribute fully to the team. At the end of the season I expect us to be up there with the best."

Chelsea were unfortunate to be knocked out of the Champions League last season to a late away goal by eventual winners Barcelona in the semi-finals, but recovered to send temporary boss Guus Hiddink off with the FA Cup.

Ballack believes

In the Barclays Premier League, however, the Blues were seven points behind United in third place as they missed out on the domestic title for the third year running.

However, midfielder Michael Ballack believes Chelsea's lack of transfer activity this summer could give them a head start over United, who have lost both Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez.

"It is our target every year to win the league and we are confident about winning the title," said Ballack.

"I think we had a good season last year, but United have played at a really high level the last few years.

"They made it really difficult for us to win the League in 2007 and 2008, but we were really close behind and last season we also finished behind Liverpool, who had a strong season.

"There are a few moments which decide every championship but we are confident it will be different next time. We have a very experienced squad.

"We haven't added a lot of new players, so we don't need much time to get into our rhythm."