AVB delighted to have Essien back

Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas spoke of his joy at seeing Michael Essien return to first-team action in the victory against Sunderland.

Essien made his first appearance of the season, coming on as a second-half substitute during the Blues’ 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge.

The player’s recovery from a knee injury is a massive boost for Villas-Boas, who said: “It is very, very gratifying for the team to have him back.

“To see a player make the switch so quickly from a reserve-team game to full Premier League intensity in such a short time is amazing.

“You have to compliment our medical department. They’ve reduced for at least a month Michael’s return to the team.”