As most of you are aware, Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien limped off during the Blues 3-0 win over West Ham United at Stamford Bridge last weekend, taking a knock early and finally being forced off after 57 minutes. With Ramires apparently still unavailable, this forced Chelsea to deploy Yossi Benayoun alongside Frank Lampard in midfield - hardly the most physically imposing combination. But fear not, for Essien should apparently be back for the game against Tottenham Hotspur:
Michael had a minor problem with a tendon above his knee during the West Ham game and came off as a precaution. Scans show no significant issues in that area.
We will look at him over the course of this week with regards to availability for the weekend.
-Chelsea FC club statement. Source: Fulham & Hammersmith Chronicle.
Good news for everyone worried about Essien's health. If there aren't any major problems, I can only see him being rested if Ramires is still unavailable, although if the Brazilian comes back I wouldn't mind seeing #5 given some time off. No need to take risks, after all.