ACCRA- Michael Essien has asked to be excused from Ghana’s 2013 Nations Cup campaign, but says he is still committed to playing for the Black Stars.
Report by BBC Sport
The midfielder, on loan at Real Madrid from Chelsea, says his priority is to secure his long-term club future.
Essien has told Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah he needs more time to settle in fully at Madrid before returning to international football.
“Essien has made it clear to me he is still committed to playing for Ghana, but he wants to sort out his club issues after moving from Chelsea to Real Madrid on loan. He is playing regularly now for Madrid and needs time to establish himself.”
Appiah says Essien has not given a definite date for his return, but he has indicated he will be available to play in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, which resume for the Black Stars in March next year with a game at home against Sudan.
The 29-year-old’s presence in the Real Madrid team in recent weeks — he scored his first goal for the club at the weekend — has led to increased calls for his return to international football.
But Appiah says given the player’s history with injuries in recent years, Ghanaian football fans must respect Essien’s wishes — even if that means he will not be part of the squad for next year’s tournament in South Africa.
- Chamisa under fire over US$120K donation
- Mavhunga puts DeMbare into Chibuku quarterfinals
- Pension funds bet on Cabora Bassa oilfields
- Councils defy govt fire tender directive
Keep Reading
“He has suffered two major injuries playing for Ghana but at no point has he said he does not want to play again”, Appiah added. “In moments like this it is important that we respect what the players want and help them through their difficult times.”
