Essien doubt for Blues

Michael Essien is a major doubt for tomorrow’s Barclays Premier League trip to Reading – but Chelsea have been boosted by the return to action of captain John Terry, defender Paulo Ferreira, midfielder Claude Makelele and striker Didier Drogba.

All took part in training today along with Brazilian Alex – although it is unlikely that fellow defender Terry (knee) will play against the Royals, while Essien’s knee problem could also rule the midfielder out.