By Patrick Akoto
Ex-Ghana international Odartey Lamptey wants Michael Essien to be given the armand for the 2013 African Cup of Nations.
The 29-year-old is in a quandary over his international future after the Black Stars booked its ticket to the continental showpiece in South Africa.
Essien joined Real Madrid on a season-long loan from Chelsea and yet to decide whether to play in the tournament.
But the former Under-17 star, who has been pushing for the return of the former Lyon ace, believes he should be handed the armband.
ââ¬ÅEssien should be back and captain the team to the African Cup of Nations,â⬠Lamptey told Accra-based Happy FM
ââ¬ÅSometimes players go through a lot of things that they donââ¬â¢t tell you guys. They get the money alright, but there are lots of things they go through.ââ¬
Essien has not played for the Black Stars since he featured in a 2012 Nations Cup qualifier against Congo in 2011.