Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has admitted that up to six teams will have a strong claim to the Premier League title in the upcoming campaign.

The 31-year-old, now captain after the departure of John Terry, says that he can see any of his club's rivals taking advantage of the Blues' return to the European arena this season.

"At the minute I think there are any of six teams who could lift the trophy, maybe even more, so it's going to be tough," Cahill told Soccer AM.

"But that has to be our aim and ambition. As do the other big clubs, that's what they strive to achieve. We managed to do it last year and we know how difficult it is. We're going to work extra hard, even harder than last year, to make sure we compete."

Regarding the Premier League champions' participation in the Champions League, he added: "It's amazing to be back in the Champions League, we want to be back on the big stage.

"Last year it was annoying when you were at home watching the games, where you used to be involved in those games. We're back where we belong, and for the players and fans it's very exciting."

Chelsea's defence of their domestic title gets underway as they host Burnley tomorrow afternoon.