Michael Essien is ruled out for six months after undergoing knee surgery . The England international was injured in the first half of Saturday's game against West Ham at Upton Park and has been replaced by fellow defender Chris Smalling. The statement continued : `` The surgery was successful and Michael 's full recovery could take up to six months . '' Chelsea have been heavily linked with Luka Modric and Joao Moutinho .
Michael Essien is ruled out for six months after undergoing knee surgery . The England international was injured in the first half of Saturday's game against West Ham at Upton Park and has been replaced by fellow defender Chris Smalling. Chelsea have been heavily linked with Luka Modric and Joao Moutinho .