Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has revealed that Michael Essien is close to making his first-team comeback after a serious knee injury.

The Ghana international has not played this season after he damaged his anterior cruciate ligaments in pre-season.

Despite recently featuring for the reserves, Villas-Boas claims that this weekend's match against Sunderland is too soon for the midfielder.

"Essien is making good progress, but this weekend will be too soon," he said.

It is thought that the 29-year-old will make his return before the end of the month.

Written by
Jack Prescott