According to the British tabloid, THE SUN, Michael Essien has declared war on Manchester United and insisted: ?We will conquer our enemy.?

The Chelsea hardman says the Blues are preparing for tomorrow?s clash at Old Trafford like troops going into battle.

Ghana star Essien, 23, said: ?We are like soldiers going out to perform our duty. It is a big battle ahead and we have to conquer the enemy to move forward and succeed.

?Afterwards we can have fun but first we have to give 100 per cent and fulfil our duty at our posts.?

United hold a three-point lead over the champions but Essien reckons Chelsea will still win the Premiership ? as well as the Champions League.

The midfielder added: ?I think if we keep going at the same tempo, we can win more trophies this time.

?We?re on top of our Champions League group and keeping up the pressure in the Premiership. We want it to stay that way. We are committed to making it happen but we are taking one step at a time.

?I want to win the Champions League and the title this year with Chelsea ? and I know we can do it.?

The African star has a reputation for getting stuck in on the pitch but he reckons he can step up another gear against United.

He added: ?I am a passionate player. I have to give 100 per cent every time ? nothing less will do.

?Even when I was playing street football in Ghana as a kid, my heart was always in the game.

?I go in for everything but I don?t think I?ve reached my limit yet.?