Michael Essien "not worried" by lack of action

Michael Essien has insisted that he is "not worried" by his lack of first-team football at Chelsea this season.

The Ghana international, who enjoyed a successful loan spell under Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid last campaign, was expected to play a key role in the Blues XI this term.

However, the 30-year-old has hardly featured, with Ramires, Frank Lampard and John Obi Mikel all ahead of him in the pecking order.

"I am not worried to sit on the bench at Chelsea. I am an experienced player to cope with this situation," the 30-year-old told Asempa FM.

"I will continue with my hard work and training and I hope my time will come to start games for Chelsea."

Essien has made just two League Cup appearances this season.