Essien Return Gives Chelsea Boost

The return of Michael Essien is a major boost for Chelsea © PA Photo

The return of Ghana international Michael Essien after long-term injury is sure to give Chelsea a big boost for the final throws of the season, according to the English Premier League club's coach Guus Hiddink.

Essien made his first appearance, since suffering a knee injury back in September, in last weekend’s 2-0 FA Cup victory over Coventry City.

His return could hardly be timelier and chances are that he will even be risked from the start for Chelsea’s crucial Champions League clash with Juventus on Tuesday.

"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," Hiddink told Sky Sports.

"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, 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 okay and in the squad for the match."