Ghana, Senegal, Egypt Favorites To Win 2019 AFCON - Michael Essien

Former Ghana ace Michael Essien beleives the Black Stars are among the favourites to win the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations and tipped hosts Egypt.

Ghana will be hoping to end it 37 years trophy drought after winning the last trophy in 1982 in Libya.

"That [question on the favourites] is a difficult one because there are so many good teams these days - it's very difficult to choose the eventual winner," Essien told Goal.

"You cannot rule out the North African teams, especially the host nation Egypt with Mohamed Salah.

"Then Ghana and the West Africans like Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon are all strong teams, so the winner could come from there.

"It's too close to call, so may the best side win."

The 36-year-old also shared what he feels could end the Black Stars' trophy drought.

"We need good hungry players, good management and a bit of luck to win titles in football and I have no doubt the team will be doing everything to win it," he said.

"It won't be easy because there are so many strong teams in Africa who will be looking to win it, so it's going to be a big battle.

"I am sure the guys will be ready and we will find out in due course."

After a period of poor results, Ghana's renaissance as a major force was led by a group of players, including Essien.

Despite qualifying for two straight Fifa World Cup tournaments (in 2006 and 2010), the Black Stars still fell short of winning the continental diadem.

"It’s difficult to explain why [we couldn't win the Afcon] because we applied the same level of dedication and effort in both the World Cup and the Afcon but football can be like that," Essien explained.

"Sometimes you can try everything and still not win.

"But as long as you leave the pitch knowing you have given everything, you can hold your head high."

The former Real Madrid and AC Milan star in the twilight of his career is currently on the books of Azerbaijani outfit Sabail FK.