Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel says Guus Hiddink should remain manager next season.

The Blues were in disarray following the sacking of Jose Mourinho in December but have lost just once — the first leg of their last-16 Champions League tie against Paris St Germain last week — under interim manager Hiddink.

Obi Mikel said: “I want him to stay. It is the choice of the owner [Roman Abramovich], the club and the board — they will have to decide.

“But if you speak to the players, 98 or 99 per cent of them want him to stay. We are very happy, we are performing well and let's hope this carries on.

“It also depends on Guus and whether he wants to continue. He has said he is here until the end of the season but you never know, he might change his mind. If the club want to appoint him, fair enough. His record speaks for itself."

The Nigerian added: “This club is bigger than anyone and he puts the record straight right away. He does not hold grudges. It is finished and we move on. That [treating players with respect] is what I mean. You can see with Diego Costa. It takes a lot to get Diego in a good mood!

“We know exactly what to do, so when he gets on the training pitch he doesn't need to speak. It is the same when we go into a game."