MICHAEL ESSIEN could be ruled out for SIX MONTHS with a cruciate ligament injury, reports the British tabloid, THE SUN.

SunSport has learnt the Chelsea midfielder, who was injured playing for Ghana against Libya on Friday, may have to go under the knife.

A Blues insider revealed: “After undergoing an examination, Michael’s injury seems to be a lot worse than previously thought. He may have to have an operation.”

The player’s agent Fabien Piveteau said: “Unfortunately it’s not good news.

“I am afraid it’s a big problem. A big problem.

“He’s taken a bad blow to the knee. I don’t know exact details but I think it’s not good.

“I don’t know what will happen. It’s now two or three times that he has taken blows to his knee.”

Essien, 25, missed Chelsea’s opener against Portsmouth due to injury but came back to face Wigan and Spurs.

A couple of days ago he appeared upbeat about his current problem, saying he would be out for a few weeks.

Now it seems the damage is far more serious — and that is a massive blow for Blues boss Big Phil Scolari.