Michael Essien to return slowly

Michael Essien
© PA Photos
Chelsea have admitted that Michael Essien will have to take his time returning to first-team action for the club.

The Ghana international managed to play 75 minutes against a West Brom reserves side but the 29-year-old is determined not to rush his recovery.

Essien has not played a part in Chelsea's season due to a knee ligament injury picked up in July.

The West London club believe that the former Lyon midfielder may not return until next month.

Andre Villas-Boas's side are currently fourth in the Premier League.
Tables
TeamPGDPTS
1Manchester United384389
2Manchester City383278
3Chelsea383675
4Arsenal383573
5Tottenham Hotspur382072
6Everton381563
7Liverpool382861
8West Bromwich Albion38-449
9Swansea City38-446
10West Ham United38-846
11Norwich City38-1744
12Fulham38-1043
13Stoke City38-1142
14Southampton38-1141
15Aston Villa38-2241
16Newcastle United38-2341
17Sunderland38-1339
RWigan Athletic38-2636
RReading38-3028
RQueens Park Rangers38-3025