Ghana midfielder Michael Essien makes Milan’s starting XI against Atletico Madrid this evening.

The former Chelsea man will partner Dutchman Nigel De Jong in the middle.

But Essien’s countryman Sulley Muntari will start from the bench.

The Rossoneri are at the Vicente Calderon tonight for their Champions League Last 16 second leg, looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit.

Mario Balotelli and Andrea Poli are both seen in Milan’s starting XI.

But  reports are that both Balotell and Poli continue to struggle with injuries but  will still make the starting line-up.

Poli is seen as in line to feature alongside Ricky Kaka and Adel Taarabt in an attacking three behind lone forward Balotelli, whilst central midfield will be Nigel de Jong and Michael Essien, in the suspended Riccardo Montolivo’s place.

Defence is expected to see Ignazio Abate and Urby Emanuelson on the flanks, with Adil Rami and Daniele Bonera sitting in front of Christian Abbiati.

Meanwhile, Diego Simeone’s quandary for Atletico Madrid reportedly hinges on selecting Raul Garcia or David Villa to support Diego Costa in attack. Los Colchoneros are at full strength.

Probable line-ups

Atletico Madrid:  Courtois; Juanfran, Miranda, Godin, Filipe; Gabi, Mario Suarez; Arda Turan, Raul Garcia, Koke; Diego Costa

Milan: Abbiati; Abate, Rami, Bonera, Emanuelson; Essien, De Jong; Taarabt, Poli, Kaka; Balotelli