Chelsea’s Michael Essien would start for Brazil – former Ghana captain C.K. Akunnor

Michael Essien, Ghana (Getty Images)

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Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien is good enough to get into the starting line-up of the Brazilian national team, according to former Ghana captain C.K Akunnor.

The coach was making a case for the midfielder who has been on a hiatus from the national team, but announced over the weekend he will be ready for the west Africans in June.

“People got it wrong on Essien,” Akunnor is quoted as saying by Myjoyonline. “Let me tell you one fact; Essien can fit into the Brazilian national team right now. If he gets into the Brazil national team, he will play.”

The coach argued that the 28-year-old’s comeback will boost the four-time African champions’ chances of impressing in upcoming tournaments. He further noted that the long break from the Black Stars was worth it to save his career, after sustaining two severe injuries on international assignment.

Ghana’s next Africa Nations Cup qualifying game is in June against Congo and the Black Stars Number 8 is expected to be playing his part.