Do give over with the Fellaini love in. He's a good player, but ready to fill Essien's boots? Unless he suddenly gains stupendous speed, athleticism and versatility, he'll never be able to fill his boots. Essien struggled this season, but I personally believe Guus will have him right back to the level he was at, where he was probably the most dynamic midfielder in Europe.
Now, before the toffees say drivel like "you've never seen him live", I have, twice, and I can appreciate his ability and the advancements in his game, but he'll never be an elite-level midfielder, which some seem to think he already is. He's a good player, but seems to lack that 'something' in most areas of his game to make him truly top drawer.