Chelsea have admitted that Michael Essien will have to take his time returning to first-team action for the club.
The Ghana international managed to play 75 minutes against a West Brom reserves side but the 29-year-old is determined not to rush his recovery.
Essien has not played a part in Chelsea's season due to a knee ligament injury picked up in July.
The West London club believe that the former Lyon midfielder may not return until next month.
Andre Villas-Boas's side are currently fourth in the Premier League.
