Ghanaian coach Bismark Kobby Mensah has praised his former teammate, Michael Essien, for the significant role he has played in his career.<\/p>\n According to the former Great Olympics coach, Essien has been an integral part of his life since their senior high school days. He also acknowledged the former Chelsea midfielder\u2019s immense impact on his career.<\/p>\n “Michael Essien has been a long-time friend since my secondary school days. We also played together for Ghana with the Black Starlets team. He paid a lot of money for me to pursue some of my coaching courses in England. I don\u2019t think any family member would do what Essien has done for me,\u201d Mensah said in an interview with Asempa FM.<\/p>\n Mensah expressed his gratitude, lauding Essien for his guidance and kindness, emphasizing how Essien has always been willing to support him.<\/p>\n “Michael Essien has been more than just a friend to me; he has been a guardian angel, always ready to lend a helping hand. I owe him the properties I own today.”<\/p>\n Since the start of his coaching career, Mensah has managed several clubs in the Ghana Premier League, including Great Olympics and Karela FC. He was also part of the Black Galaxies technical team at the 2022 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Algeria.<\/p>\n Watch the latest edition of Sports Debate below:<\/b><\/p>\n![\"Former](\"https:\/\/cdn.ghanaweb.com\/imagelib\/pics\/466\/46617143.295.jpg\" "\\"Former")
play video<\/span>Former Great Olympics coach, Kobby Mensah and Michael Essien<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n