Anelka OUT Essien possible START for Juventus tie


By dixon9
March 8 2009

Nicolas Anelka is doubtful for Tuesday’s Champions League tie against Juventus as he will probably not have recovered in time from his ankle injury. The good news is that Michael Essien could even start in Turin subject to a fitness test.

"Will Anelka be fit? I doubt it,” said Guus Hiddink.

"He is working but has been out now for many days. We'll see what his reaction is to some treatment plus training."

Essien celebrates scoring the winning goal

Michael Essien could return though after successfully coming through 90 minutes with the reserves earlier in midweek and 25 minutes against Coventry in the Ricoh Stadium yesterday. 

"Essien has played and trained with the second team. Now he is fit but it is different to be game fit if you are playing very tough games,” added Hiddink. 

"I have hours to think whether we start with him, yes or no, and see what his reaction is from Saturday - but it is good to have people on the bench who can slot in easily."  

For Juventus, midfielder Mohamed Sissoko will miss out after breaking a bone in his left foot during his side's win over Torino in Serie A on Saturday.

Full Juventus match preview to follow soon… 

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Anelka OUT Essien possibly IN for Juventus tie
Discussion started by 50 Years Over 100 Years , 08/03/2009 20:40
50 Years Over 100 Years
08/03/2009 20:40
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