Essien to play through pain

Michael Essien insists his knee injury will not stop him from playing a part in Chelsea's push for honours.

The Ghanaian midfielder has missed the club's last four games after hurting his knee in the 3-3 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup quarter-final.

He has been receiving treatment and is hoping to be available for The Blues' UEFA Champions League tie with Valencia on Wednesday.

Essien admits that playing on against Spurs is the reason why he has yet to return to Jose Mourinho's plans.

But, with Chelsea aiming to win a further three competitions, the midfield powerhouse is ready to play through the pain barrier.

"When I did my knee at Spurs I felt as if I would have to come off, but then I decided I could continue," Essien told the Daily Star Sunday.

"But by doing that I think I made it a lot worse, which is why the injury is taking a long time to heal.

"I did manage to get through the Spurs game even though I was in quite a bit of pain.

"I haven't been able to do a lot of running in the last few days because the knee is still not right, but it will not stop me from playing when needed."