Essien questions Arsenal strategy

Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien believes Arsenal's stylish brand of football is ultimately self-defeating as it does not produce enough results.

He told the BBC's Inside Sport show: "Arsenal is one of those teams that just plays beautiful football, but they don't get the points they want to.

"To play beautiful football without points, is I don't think, worth it.

"To be rough and get three points, or play well and get three points - win ugly or beautifully - I don't care."

Essien had knee surgery in September and is set to be out for five months.

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The midfielder suffered the injury during Ghana's World Cup qualifier against Libya on 5 September.

He has been a regular for Chelsea since his £24m move from Lyon in 2005, scoring 14 goals in 132 appearances.

On Saturday, Arsenal beat Manchester United 2-1 at The Emirates, a result that leaves Arsene Wenger's side six points behind leaders Chelsea.

Wenger's side last won a trophy in 2005 when Arsenal beat Manchester United on penalties to claim the FA Cup.

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The Michael Essien interview can be seen in full on Inside Sport, Monday 10 November 10, BBC1, 2305 GMT.