Essien Given Two-Match Ban

Ghana and Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has been handed a two-match ban by UEFA following his gruesome tackle on Liverpool?s Dietmar Hamann in the European Champions League. The action comes following a charge of gross unsporting conduct from UEFA.

Essien, who is expected to be one of the star players for the Black Stars at next summer?s finals, didn?t even receive a yellow card from German referee Herbert Fandel following the incident. However, after FIFA president Sepp Blatter?s confirmation that video evidence could be used to bring retrospective charges, UEFA took action.

Hamann, who described the tackle as the "worst I have suffered in my career," will be hoping to figure for host-nation Germany at next year?s finals. Although coach Jurgen Klinsmann has adopted a distinct youth policy since taking charge, Hamann is practically assured of a place in the squad. His experience, and toughness, could prove invaluable.