Mikel John Obi has wished Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich a happy birthday and praised the 50-year-old for taking the club "to the next level."
Abramovich purchased the Blues in 2003 and has transformed the club into a Premier League force.
Abramovich's significant investment has led to criticism in the past but Chelsea have won a host of honours under the Russian's guidance, including a Champions League triumph in 2012.
Mikel has played a part in the majority of the success, having moved to west London in 2006, and appears to have a close bond with Abramovich.
Mikel is yet to feature for Antonio Conte's side in the Premier League this season but could be given a rare start in tonight's EFL Cup clash against West Ham.
The Blues will be expected to progress at the expense of their London rivals with Mikel adamant Slaven Bilic's side have paid a heavy price for leaving the Boleyn Ground.
