Michael Essien will not play for Lyon because he is worried an injury will scupper his proposed move to Chelsea.
Blues boss Jose Mourinho has told the French champions to admit defeat and sell Essien to his mega-rich West London side.
Lyon have turned down Chelsea's approaches for the 22-year-old, who has said that he does not want to play for Lyon's first team.
Gerard Houllier's side are still resisting the move but it does seem that it could be inevitable that once again Chelsea's wealth will make the difference.
Essien's agent Fabien Piveteau has now insisted that the African is not on strike, but said that he did not play in Lyon's opening game of the season because he does not want an injury scuppering a move to Stamford Bridge.
"He's afraid to be injured," Piveteau told the BBC.
"It's the chance of his life and he does not have a bad attitude - but he does not want to pick up injuries.
"I think today is a very important day - I think Lyon understand Michael does not want to stay.
"The coach is not happy that Michael won't play - but it's difficult for Michael.
"He is not happy but he goes to training every day and has no problem with the other players.
"Many clubs want Michael - but the problem for them is the price.
"He has decided to go to Chelsea because they have pushed for one month now - they want him, absolutely.
"I'm not sure if we will find a solution soon but I hope we do."
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[ Last edited by 翔∼ on 2005-8-7 at 17:15 ]作者:
夜影 時間: 2005-8-8 22:53
