Essien’s agent says injury worry prompted strike

MICHAEL ESSIEN’S agent last night insisted the Chelsea target has chosen not to play for current side Lyon because he is worried about picking up an injury.

The French side, managed by former Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier, have turned down two offers for the 22-year-old Ghana midfielder.

Essien is determined to secure a passage out of France and insists he is only interested in playing for the Barclays Premiership champions.