Chelsea’s midfield workhorse Michael Essien could be out until 2012 after he damaged knee ligaments in training on Thursday.One man’s trash is another’s treasure I guess – and though Chelsea will certainly miss their combative and experienced central midfield general, this is an opportunity for the young Brazilian Ramires to step in and cement a position in the starting lineup.
Ramires took a very long time to acclimate to the Premier League last season and looked out of his depth his first six months or so at the club but turned it on a bit in the spring and with Essien out, could play a key role this season. The question for Fantasy Premier League managers remains however – will Ramires be attacking enough to be worthy of investment?
The jury is still out on new Chelsea manager Andres Villas-Boas’ preferred formation and starters, but if Ramires gets a look, he could be an interesting fantasy prospect this season.
He made a couple of really great runs yesterday in Brazil’s draw with Paraguay in Copa America- bustling forward from a defensive midfield area to an attacking area with speed and control, but has only scored twice in 23 appearances for his national team, so goals shouldn’t be expected. That said, Essien doesn’t score too often either – but has been a good fantasy contributor in the past with assists, bonus points, and clean sheets from a reasonably priced midfield position…