Essien seeks World Cup glory
Essien is key for the Black Stars The Ghanaian national soccer team that is in Sudan for today's World Cup qualifying clash pulled crowds in their camping base in Naivasha, Kenya but one man has been more than a darling to the fans there.
The man who once had a trial at Manchester United and has turned into one of Europe's most revered midfielders at Chelsea: Michael Kojo Essien.
The guy has done some pretty spectacular things for football.
That he can do things with a ball that other players can only dream of and score splendid goals like the Barcelona versus Chelsea Champions League screamer is pretty impressive.
Oh, and don't get me started on those free kicks....
No stopping
After nearly failing to reach the World Cup until 2006, Ghana is back, with a three-point advantage over second-placed Mali. And with a Sh156 million budget for the six qualifying matches, there's no stopping the Black Stars.
The sudden outpouring of support has lifted the team's morale, Essien says.
“It feels good to have another chance in the World Cup. Our first edition at the 2006 World Cup in Germany really put us in a very good position. We have been dreaming of advancing past the quarter-finals,” the 26 year-old told the Daily Nation at the team's Kenyan training camp in Naivasha on Wednesday.
After an understated start to his career at Stamford Bridge, the “Bison” has flourished into the heartbeat of Ghana's team as a box-to-box midfielder who can fill in across the back four and is equally capable in the tackle and in front of goal.
His brilliance stems not only from his athleticism and power, which consistently helps Chelsea win the midfield battle, but also his surging runs and creativity.
“Well, playing for the national team carries a lot of weight and the expectations are high. It's a bit different from playing for club,” he added.
Last season Essien ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament playing for Ghana in early September, but with the stocky midfielder fit and well, he's hoping he can help lead the team once more.