UEFA hand Essien two-match ban

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has been banned for two European matches for an aggressive tackle on Liverpool player Dietmar Hamann in the Champions League, UEFA announced on Thursday.

"Chelsea FC will be without Michael Essien for both legs of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16," the UEFA official website said.

The Ghanaian international was charged with "gross unsporting conduct" for the harsh challenge on Hamman in the last group stage match of the UEFA Champions League.

"In making its decision, the Control and Disciplinary Body took into account the player's plea for mitigation and his previous unblemished disciplinary record," the UEFA statement added.

The English Champions will know their opponent in the round of 16 in the draw set to be held on Friday in Switzerland.