Di Matteo backs Essien to rediscover form

Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo is optimistic Michael Essien will rediscover his form next season.

The 29-year-old has lost the steam that made him one of the fearsome midfielders in the world after recovering from three career threatening injuries.

The service provided by ‘The Train’ is not what it once was. Those diving runs and all-action displays seem to be a thing of the past for the former Lyon enforcer.

The Ghana midfielder’s own goal at Liverpool has really defined his season but the Italian manager has reposed faith in the player by insisting he will bounce back strongly next term.

“Because Michael has been out for a long time it takes a bit of time to get back into the rhythm,” Matteo said

“Next season, he will start to see some fine performances,”