Michael Essien would miss Ghana's final Group 5 qualifier for the 2010 Africa Nations Cup and World Cup.

The Chelsea midfielder faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament.

Essien would thus be unavailable for the final group qualifier against Lesotho at home on October 12.

The player suffered the knee injury during Ghana's defeat to Libya last Friday.

Michael Essien is now expected to undergo surgery.

A club statement read: "Michael Essien suffered a knee injury playing for Ghana on Friday.

"He has ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament and will undergo an operation as soon as the majority of the swelling has subsided. We expect this to happen in a week's time.

"In the meantime Michael has started rehab in the aqua therapy centre at Cobham which will improve the condition of the knee prior to surgery. A return to full fitness is not expected for several months."

Essien, who was immediately withdrawn from the game admits that he is devastated by the injury.

"There was no challenge but after I cut out a cross and landed I felt awkward and the pain was sharp. I am devastated but these things happen in football," Essien said.