Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien is facing up to six weeks out with the knee injury he suffered on international duty.
The Ghanaian, who had only just recovered from a hamstring problem, damaged his knee during training for the African Nations Cup.
Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti is keen to have the key midfielder available again within a month, but admits his recovery could take longer.
Ancelotti told the club’s official website: “He had a tear in the meniscus, and he has to stay out for four to six weeks. I hope four.”
“In January, Essien was not here, he was at the African Cup.
“Maybe we lose him for one month, it is not good news but I think that we will do a good job again.”
