Essien still mending - GFA
by Gary Al-Smith 18 July 2012, 13:22
Black Stars midfielder Michael Essien needs more time before returning to the national team after a string of career threatening injuries, according to Ibrahim Saanie Daara. The spokesperson of the football governing body noted that the coach of the national team will love to field the Chelsea man, but he is aware of the player's difficulties.
The 28 year old has had to deal with serious injuries in the last two seasons. "Kwesi Appiah will give Essien some more time," the FA spokesman said.
Essien temporarily called time on his international career after a serious injury of the knee ruled him out of the 2010 African Nations Cup. He later rescinded the decision but has only played two games for the Black Stars since then.
"Even though the coach will definitely want to have him in the side, Kwesi Appiah understands the player's difficulties at the moment."
The comments were made in the wake of the return of Asamoah Gyan, as well as the injury situation of the national team as well. Sulley Muntari and John Mensah will be out of the team's African Cup qualifier against Malawi due to injury, and Milan's Kevin-Prince Boateng cited frequent injuries as a reason for his own retirement.
