It's unfair to call me unpatriotic – Essien

Ghana and Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien says it is unfair for fans to label him as unpatriotic because he does not play for the Black Stars.

The midfielder has been absent from the national team for close to two years after asking for time off to recover from injuries and get his career back on track. He spent the season on loan this season at Real Madrid making several appearances.

“I think it’s very unfair. People are quick to judge players. I’ve been playing for Ghana since I was 17 and I’ve always been there for the nation and I’ve played at every category. To say I’m unpatriotic is really unfair” the player told TV 3 news.

The player has undergone nine major surgeries on his knees.

Essien told Citi Fm in an interview a few weeks back that he would make an announcement about his future involvement with Black Stars assignments after his charity event and he has scheduled meetings with the Ghana Football Association to discuss the situation.
 
Credit: Citi Fm/Ghana