Michael Essien is a severe doubt for the first leg of Chelsea FC's UEFA Champions League round of 16 tie against FC Internazionale Milano after being ruled out for "four to six weeks" with a knee injury.

International duty
Essien featured in every group-stage game for Chelsea, but picked up the injury while on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Ghana. The midfielder returned to north London and following tests the club say he is likely to miss the trip to face the man who brought him to Stamford Bridge, José Mourinho. ''He has a tear in the meniscus, and he has to stay out for four to six weeks," said manager Carlo Ancelotti. "I hope four. It's not good news." The game at San Siro is on 24 February with the Stamford Bridge return on 16 March. Essien will also miss the visit of Premier League leaders Arsenal FC on 7 February.