Essien to return for Ghana

20 October 2010 15:30
Michael Essien will return to the international fold for Ghana's next competitive international against DR Congo in March next year, the country's football association has confirmed. The Chelsea midfielder temporarily put his Black Stars career on hold in August, saying he wanted to concentrate on recuperating fully from a knee injury, that forced him out of the African Nations Cup and then the World Cup. He has constantly improved over the current season, showing glimpses of his best in the Barclays Premier League. "Essien never said he will not play for Ghana again," Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kwesi Nyantakyi said. "He merely asked for time away from the team but has now told us he will be available for selection in March." Essien's last appearance for his country came during the group stages of AFCON 2010 in Angola, where he played 45 minutes before pulling out.

Source: PA