Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti says he'll be careful not to overload Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien with too many matches.
The Ghana international missed half of last season with a knee injury that nearly blighted their season.
He was fully used by Chelsea for their matches when he was fit while he travelled to the Nations Cup in Angola where he suffered another injury.
Essien has managed to make a full recovery this season and has hit the ground running with excellent showing for Chelsea.
Ghana football authorities have temporarily excused him from Black Stars duties and Ancelotti is not prepared to see him suffer again.
Ancelotti said: “We missed him last year. His injury was very bad for us.
“His contribution was fantastic. We hope he stays fit he is like a new signing for us but he needs rest.â€
The rest is needed to ensure that he makes good appearances for both Chelsea and Ghana.
He is expected to return to the Black Stars early next year.