Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has hit back at criticism of his disciplinary record and insists he is not a 'killer' on the pitch.

Mikel was handed his fourth red card since joining the Blues when he was given his marching orders in Tuesday's Carling Cup clash with Everton.

. "I honestly believe I did not deserve the red card," the Nigerian international told the Daily Star.

"If people look at my record at Chelsea with four reds, they would believe I was some sort of monster.

. "But I am not a killer on the field. I play with force and to win every match but really the amount of reds I have been given is very excessive in my opinion.

"Perhaps the referees do not understand my style. I have seen much tougher tackles in games where players have not been sent off."

And Mikel has revealed he has asked for advice from Chelsea team-mate Michael Essien, who was also criticised for his physical style when he arrived in England.

. "Essien has given me some advice because he went through this as well," Mikel added. "Things have changed for him now and I hope they do for me."