[ 2011-07-12 ]

Michael Essien has been ruled out for six months
Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has been ruled
out for six months after a knee operation.

The Ghana international, 28, ruptured his anterior
cruciate ligament and meniscus during pre-season
training, and underwent "successful" surgery.

Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas told the club
website: "Everyone wishes Michael well for his
recovery.

"His team-mates and all the staff and I look
forward to helping him return to playing as soon
as possible."

Essien was ruled out for more than six months in
2008 when he sustained cruciate ligament damage.

He also missed the 2010 World Cup because of a
knee problem.

The midfielder's latest setback is a blow to
Villas-Boas, who is preparing his squad for their
trip to the Far East, where they will compete in
the Asia Cup.

Essien joined the Blues from French club Lyon in
2005 in a £24.4m deal and has gone on to
establish himself as a key player at Stamford
Bridge.

He has helped Chelsea to two Premier League titles
and three FA Cups, as well as the Carling Cup in
2007.

Despite being ruled out for the majority of the
2008/09 campaign, Essien has amassed 229
appearances, scoring 26 goals.

Source - BBC

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