Essien Confirms Ghana Return

Ghana midfielder Michael Essien has told coach Goran Stevanovic he will return to the Black Stars for next month's crucial African Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo, according to Ghanasoccernet.

The Chelsea star player told the Serbian coach of his return to the team on Thursday during a telephone conversation.

This means he will be available for the friendly against England three days after the game in Brazzaville.

Essien took a temporary break from international duties last year but did not state his exact return date, sparking fears of a decision to retire permanently from the team.

The 'softly softly' approach of the Serbian coach of the Black Stars is yielding the desired results as the Chelsea star spoke with the new coach  on Thursday to assure him of his commitment to his country.

'I spoke with Michael Essien a few moments ago and he has confirmed that he will return to the squad for our next game,' Stevanovic told Ghanasoccernet.com on Thursday.

'This is good news for all of us because for a long time we have not had all of our players because of injuries and a combination of other factors.

'Essien is a key player for Ghana and I am delighted that like all the other players of the Black Stars he wants to play and help his country.

'If we deploy all our best players we should be able to improve on our recent good results and performances.

'We need everybody on board to make the Black Stars better and to help our aim of winning titles. Essien's decision is important for Ghana and it shows he is a patriot.'

Despite the confirmation by Essien, Stevanovic will travel to meet the Chelsea star next week.

The Serbian manager will also meet Asamoah Gyan and the other Ghanaian players he has not seen so far.

The new coach held a similar meeting with Sulley Muntari in Milan last month which paved the way for the ex-Inter star to return to the national team fold after a silent suspension over disciplinary problems.

His recall to the Black Stars sparked confidence in the midfielder who subsequently ex celled in the 4-1 friendly win over Togo last week.

Kevin Prince Boateng also held a meeting with the coach in Milan.

Source: Ghanasoccernet