John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien Near Return
John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien are both very close to a return to Chelsea action, according to the club's assistant manager, Ray Wilkins.
Both players missed the back end of last season and Essien was not able to get fit in time to represent his country, Ghana, at the World Cup. However, the pair are on course to take part in Chelsea's pre-season program and the start of the Premier League season.
The pair suffered niggling injuries that stopped them from playing games and training with the first team as they had to take time out to recover. Wilkins argues that this frustrated them both and they are chomping at the bit to get back into the team.
Mikel and Essien are very similar players but it's important to look at the main differences between each because it will give a better idea of how Chelsea are likely to play next season.
John Obi Mikel
Mikel is the sort of player in the Chelsea team who runs around like a mad man trying to bring down any opposition attack that is put together. The team has not had a player like this since Claude Makelele, and the club were fortunate that Mikel's injury did not cost them the Premier League title.
His game is all about pace and aggression and this could be something that the club have a slight worry over. The point is that Mikel is more likely to throw himself into tackles and challenges, which will risk making the injury reappear.
He's a versatile player and can be used by Carlo Ancelotti to fill in the gaps when other players try and get forward or are caught out of position. This is likely to mean he will be named in the starting line up as soon as he has proved his match fitness.
Michael Essien
Essien is more flamboyant than Mikel although the pair play in virtually the same position. The main difference is that Essien can make things happen and will always be looking for the killer pass that can turn a dull passage of play into a chance.
Essien is just as aggressive as Mikel, and it's important that the club sit down with both of them and tell them to take it easy. Although the club and the fans will be happy to see some passion, they will be much more annoyed if the pair get injured while showing it.
Wilkins said on the club website: "There should be no problem whatsoever. John Obi is slightly in advance of Michael Essien but they are both working very well indeed. They have been working double sessions for the last week and we will get them really firing before the season starts."
Betting Advice
If both of these players are fit and in contention for a starting place at the beginning of the new Premier League season then it won't take long for the odds to shorten on Chelsea retaining their title. They stand a good chance regardless and these two players will only increase their chances.
If you prefer to back individual players then Essien is more likely to make you money through scoring goals. He gets forward more often and is not flustered in front of a goal. He's also been proven to be very successful in Europe in terms of goal scoring.
If you want to back Chelsea then stick with backing them domestically. It will be much more difficult for the side to win the Champions League this season and you should wait before betting if you prefer European bets.
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