Injured Michael Essien faces six months on sidelines

The Ghana midfielder damaged ligaments in his right knee during a training session last week, the third serious knee blow of his career, and has undergone an operation.

A statement on Chelsea's official website read: "Following an injury to his right knee in training last week, Michael Essien had surgery today to repair a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus. The surgery was successful and Michael's full recovery could take up to six months."

Meanwhile, Stoke manager Tony Pulis offered Jonathan Woodgate the chance to resurrect his football career but admitted he was taking a chance in signing the injury-plagued defender. Woodgate has penned a one-year contract at the Britannia Stadium after his deal at Tottenham expired.

The 31-year-old has undoubted talent but his career has been decimated by injury to the extent that he was able to make just four appearances in the last two seasons at White Hart Lane due to a groin problem. Pulis csaid: "The lad is a top-class player and it's been well documented that he has had his injury troubles, but we believe that if his fitness is managed properly, he will play games for us.

As Tottenham lost one player they recruited another as former Barcelona youngster Cristian Ceballos arrived at White Hart Lane.

The 18-year-old trained with Chelsea in March and visited Spurs' training ground towards the end of last season for a trial, which has led to a deal.