Hiddink expects "huge impact" from Essien
Michael Essien was out for six months
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Monday, 09, Mar 2009 09:37
Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink has hailed the return from injury of Michael Essien and feels the Ghanaian will be an important player in the coming months.
The 26-year-old missed six months of the season after suffering an anterior cruciate knee ligament injury while playing for Ghana last September. Essien made his comeback in the FA Cup victory over Coventry on Saturday and now could play against Juventus in the Champions League.
"I think it's very important from now until the end of the season to have a big squad in terms of numbers and quality," said Hiddink.
"Essien has come back so we have more depth in quality in the squad. He can make his contribution like he did in the past. He was out for many, many months, so it's not easy for him to get the rhythm of the game from the first minute he plays.
"But he's very strong, a very positive guy and he can have a huge impact for the rest of the season. He will be in the 18 (against Juventus), so he's ready to start. Let's see what will happen. We can either start with him or bring him on later, as we did at Coventry, but he's OK and in the squad for the match."
Hiddink is also hopeful he can call on the services of topscorer Nicolas Anelka and midfielder Deco for the clash against Juventus.
Anelka returned to training yesterday after suffering a bruised toe and Deco has also trained for the last few days after recovering from a torn hamstring.