Essien so central to Jose’s midfield plans

CHELSEA manager Jose Mourinho wants Michael Essien to be the rock in his new-look midfield, leaving just one place up for grabs in the middle of the park.

Mourinho has already signalled his intent to revert to two wingers as the Blues bid to regain the Premier League title they lost to Manchester United last season.

His decision has a big influence on the make-up of his central midfield options with Essien, Michael Ballack, Frank Lampard, Claude Makelele and Steve Sidwell among the big names vying for places.