The international wide man, whose performances with his country at Euro 2008 were impressive, was tipped for a while to join a European powerhouse this summer.

Barcelona were reportedly interested in the services of the former Spartak Tambov man, but he eventually opted to move to the Blues.

Zhirkov arrived at Stamford Bridge last weekend to undergo a medical, and head coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed the signing completion later on.

"Zhirkov, Sturridge - these are Chelsea players," Ancelotti said. "Zhirkov is naturally on the left. I think he can do all the work and can play in defense and in between."

Chelsea signed young goalkeeper Ross Turnbull and forward Daniel Sturridge earlier in the close season.

Zhirkov is looking forward to helping Chelsea claim titles next season, after they finished last term empty-handed.

"At Chelsea they've always wanted to win this trophy and for a number of reasons it hasn't happened," Zhirkov said.

"I hope that with my arrival their bad luck will change and that Chelsea will finally win this trophy."

The 25-year-old is convinced that he will secure a regular spot in Chelsea's starting eleven.

"I'm confident in my own ability and I'm sure I can win a place in the team under new boss Carlo Ancelotti," he stated.

"I haven't yet spoken to him but I expect to soon.

"I always dreamed of playing in a top club and when the opportunity came, it would have been inexcusable for me to let it pass."

Zhirkov’s highlights