Essien in or out?

The fitness of Michael Essien is Jose Mourinho’s major concern ahead of Chelsea’s home Premiership clash with Sheffield United tomorrow.

Essien suffered his knee injury in the 3-3 FA Cup quarter-final draw with Tottenham and Mourinho may choose to rest him ahead of the replay on Monday.

Midfielder Joe Cole (foot) remains their only long-term absentee while Mikel John Obi is suspended.

Provisional squad: Cech, Cudicini, Hilario, Ferreira, Geremi, Diarra, Carvalho, Essien, Terry, Bridge, A Cole, Lampard, Makelele, Ballack, Drogba, Shevchenko, Kalou, Wright-Phillips, Boulahrouz.