Essien is the only Chelsea player to have played every game so far this campaign and his stunning equaliser against Arsenal is now a candidate for goal of the season.

The Ghanaian midfielder's contribution has not gone unnoticed by in-form striker Drogba, who has grabbed all the headlines after smashing 17 goals so far.

The Ivorian ace has hit the winning goal in Chelsea's last two league games and topped that by coming off the substitutes' bench to fire them into the semi-final of the Carling Cup with the winner over Newcastle in midweek.

But Drogba said: "He (Essien) has played every minute this season and is one of the best midfielders in the world.

"He is unique. He can play right-back, central midfield and centre-back. Chelsea supporters now know why the club bought him."

Meanwhile, Chelsea right-back Geremi has revealed how captain John Terry gave the squad individual presents at the training ground on Friday.

The England captain is doubtful for the trip to Wigan because of a recurring back injury but that did not stop him becoming Santa Claus to the rest of Jose Mourinho's squad before the flight north from Gatwick Airport.

Terry handed each player an individual book comprised of pictures of last season's title triumph - the team's second consecutive Premiership crown under Mourinho.

The gifts were well received by the rest of the players as Geremi revealed: "It is a big blow that he is injured at the moment.

"We know he is first-choice but we have to do without him at the moment. He is always in the dressing room, even when he is not playing.

"We need him because he is a character and to motivate the players. We received a book full of great moments from last season. It was a great present.

"He gave a book to each one of us. He was the only one to think about giving presents. It is something we will keep forever."