Essien and Ballack latest

Last updated : 15 August 2006 By Paul Lagan
Michael Essien and Michael Ballack are both expected to be fit for Sunday's Premiership opener at home to Manchester City.
Essien is intending to play tonight for Ghana against Toga in the friendly match at Loftus Road.
The influential midfielder, who was Chelsea's man-of-the-match in the Community Shield, broke a wrist in the sometimes volitile encounter against Liverpool.
German captain limped out of that match with a suspected muscle pull but has also claimed he will be ready to start for Chelsea.