Mikel has not played for Chelsea since he returned from the Rio 2016 where he won bronze medal with Nigeria’s U-23 football side.

ALSO READ: Mikel Obi admits he's on his way out of Chelsea

“I hope I will get some playing time against West Ham, but it is down to the manager,” the 29-year-old told the London Evening Standard.

He further revealed that he has spoken with Antonio Conte over his lack of games and praised the manager for being honest with him.

ALSO READ: John Mikel Obi hails Conte's impact at Chelsea

“He has been open and honest with me. I respect him for that. He has explained the situation and I totally understand,” he said.

“When you have been at a club for a long time, these things happen where a club wants to move forward.

“I just have to be professional, work as hard as I can to try and get into the team. I work twice as hard every day and it’s because I appreciate this club.”

Chelsea make a short trip across London to face West Ham in the round 16 of the EFL Cup.