Chelsea boss Andrea Villa Boas has admitted he is looking for cover to replace the injured Michael Essien.
The Ghanaian powerhouse suffered severe crucial ligament damage two weeks ago and will be out of action for six months leaving Chelsea short of options in central midfield.
The Blues had been linked with combative midfielder Scott Parker and Newcastle’s Chiat Tiote and Villa Boas confirms the club will look to bring in a defensive midfielder.
“Michael is a fantastic person and a fantastic individual,” he said.
“He was one of the people I kept in contact with for a long time after I left and I always considered him a friend and it was a pity for him to get another injury like this.
“I think it is a big blow because of what he represents and what he represents as a person.
“Six months is a lot of time and for sure bearing in mind this was already a sector we were looking to strengthen we might need to move in the market.”
Submitted by Football Friends
