Akosua Puni now Akosua Puni Essien

Since news broke in September 2012 that soccer star Michael Essien had married publicist Akosua Puni at a secret location in London, the issue has been treated as mere speculation until last Friday evening when the lady was officially referred to as 'Akosua Puni Essien' at a cocktail event organized by Essien.

The cocktail was held on the eve of Essien's charity football match between Africa XI and World XI and reports say Akosua Puni was virtually in charge of the entire arrangements and organization.

Indeed she is the head of the Michael Essien Foundation. Other reports making the round is that Essien and Akosua have two children together and the kids are currently in London.

During Essien's trip to his hometown last year to support a charity project, one of the persons who accompanied him there was a very pregnant Akosua.

Though the reports of Essien and Akosua having a relationship and even a child are very widespread in football circles, skeptics will express doubts that the 30-year old footballer would do such a thing after ending his relationship with actress Nadia Buari.

Akosua Puni's age is not in the public domain but she is most probably way above 30, considering the number of 'adult years' she has been in media circles and showbiz fraternity.

Another rare strength of Akosua Puni is her ability to earn media speculations about who she is dating although none of these reports were ever backed by evidence.

Once upon a time she was said to be dating hiplife musician Kwadee. Later reports said she was dating former captain of the Black Stars, Stephen Appiah.