Michael Essien wants a goat for Christmas

Essien is eyeing a goat for Christmas

Ghana and Chelsea superstar Michael Essien is reported to have revealed his dream Christmas present - a goat.

 
The Chelsea midfielder, nicknamed the Bison, still relishes the Yuletide traditions back home in Ghana.

And Essien, 27, sidelined by a hamstring injury, reckons there can be no better festive gift than one of the horny beasts.

"In Ghana the presents can range from your modern gifts - perfumes and clothes - to a goat or food exchanged between families," he said.

"It's brilliant. Fancy waking up on Christmas Day to see a goat tied up in the garden - which is a present from your next door neighbour."

Essien also admitted he used to be confused as to the meaning of Boxing Day.

"As a kid I always thought it was the day (Ghanaian boxing legend) Azumah Nelson always fought," he said.

"I thought it was a day set aside for boxing fights. So I was surprised to find Azumah fighting in June once until it was explained to me!"