Essien digs in over Cup

Michael Essien admitted last night that losing players for the African Cup of Nations will be a "massive blow" for Chelsea, but the midfielder insisted he will not put club before country.

Chelsea could lose up to five players during the tournament in the New Year, threatening their title challenge.

Michael Essien is helped from the field after a crunching tackle from Senegal's Papa Bouba Diop

Essien accepts it could cause conflict but is eager to play in the event on home soil in Ghana. "I am aware of the tension it causes, but I am happy and honoured to play in the tournament for Ghana," he said, after captaining his country in last night's draw with Senegal at Millwall's New Den. Ghana took the lead when Udinese striker Asamoah Gyan ran on to Portsmouth midfielder Sulley Muntari's flick and slotted past Senegal keeper Tony Sylva in the 44th minute. But unsettled Bolton forward El-Hadji Diouf fired the equaliser in the 73rd minute.