Having been plagued by injuries since arriving at Chelsea, Russia wide midfielder Yuri Zhirkov has stated his belief in a return to full fitness and his confidence that he can make an impact in west London.

The Blues' £18m summer signing from CSKA Moscow has so far been limited to just two appearances this season, and is still to feature in the English Premier League.

Yet with left-back Ashley Cole out injured, the versatile 25-year-old could be set for a run in the first team: provided he can get match-fit.

The English doctors see my problems as the body's reaction to drastic changes in climate
Chelsea's Yuri Zhirkov on his fitness travails

Currently away with Russia as they look to secure 2010 FIFA World Cup™ qualification in the second leg of their play-off against Slovenia tonight, Zhirkov hopes his fitness situation will improve after his return to Stamford Bridge.

"I try to remain optimistic: many players have had such difficulties. It is a pity that the problems coincided with my move to a new club, but if I keep being distressed the situation will not change," Zhirkov told Russian newspaper Sport Express.

"I must work and believe that everything is going to sort itself out soon. In Chelsea the team is very good, all of them understand my situation. My case is not the first, many Chelsea new boys have been sidelined in their early months in the club."

Zhirkov revealed a change in climate or even diet could be behind his knee problems, with swelling causing him pain after aggravating an old injury during the pre-season friendly against AC Milan.

"The English doctors see my problems as the body's reaction to drastic changes in climate, lifestyle, training exercises and in everything else," concluded the left-sided flyer.