Mourinho: Essien must “buy his minutes”

Jose Mourinho says he cannot offer Michael Essien any assurances over his involvement in the first team.

The Chelsea boss has green lighted a January move for the Ghana international,with several clubs said to be interested in snapping up the midfield powerhouse.

Responding to questions after his team’s 3-0 win over Southampton,Mourinho said players must work to get into his starting XI.

“I offer nobody guaranteed game time.They have to buy their minutes.I can’t promise.I cant offer nothing.”

Mourinho also indicated he was not interested in selling frustrated playmaker,Juan Mata but would not keep the player if he made a transfer request.

“Do I want to sell him?.I don’t want to so it never starts from us,the desire to a move a player that we like.”