Essien Upbeat Over Recovery From Injury

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien says he is recovering well from his latest knee injury but has refused to set a date for his comeback.

The Ghana international ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during pre-season training and is expected to be out for most of the season.

The 28-year-old told the Chelsea website: “I know I have to be patient so I can heal properly.”

Essien also missed most of the 2008/09 campaign with a knee ligament injury.

He was ruled out of the 2010 World Cup because of a knee problem.

He added: “The injury is well-documented so I will not dwell on it, however I can say I have had a good operation on my knee.

“I have been here before and know the routine inside out now but it’s still hard work as I hate to watch games on TV.

“I prefer to be with my team-mates in training and on the field of play.

“I have been asked when I am coming back and at this point in time it’s down to how the recovery goes and when I am given the all clear by the medical team. Sorry I can’t be more precise, but its too early to give specific dates.”

Essien joined Chelsea 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.