Sunday, March 7, 2010

Ray Wilkins Optimistic Despite Michael Essien Setback


Michael Essien has suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee problem but Chelsea have contradicted reports suggesting the midfielder could miss the remainder of the season.

Essien underwent surgery on January 29 after picking up a knee injury during training with Ghana at the African Nations Cup and has not featured for Chelsea in 2010.

It is reported on Saturday morning that the injury could prevent Essien from featuring for Chelsea in the final three months of the season, putting his participation at the World Cup in real doubt.

However, Chelsea assistant manager Ray Wilkins is happy with Essien's progress and appears confident the player will be seen in a Chelsea shirt again soon.

"Michael Essien is doing well, there has been a slight complication which means it needs a couple of weeks longer but he's out [in France] with Ashley [Cole] now and they're both doing extremely well, so from that point of view we're delighted with their recovery," Wilkins said. "It's difficult to give a timescale but hopefully he'll be fit as soon as possible because when we lose players of that quality it is damning on any side."

Essien told the Accra Daily Mail: "I will be back as soon as I can. I hate being on the sidelines but at the same time I need to be patient and heal properly. Once the medical team give me the all clear you will see me doing my thing on the pitch."

Chelsea confirmed on Friday that Jose Bosingwa will miss the remainder of the season due to a knee problem while Ashley Cole is also sidelined with a broken foot and could miss the World Cup with England.

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