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.
“Essien should be back and captain the team to the African Cup of Nations,†Lamptey told Accra-based Happy FM
“Sometimes players go through a lot of things that they don’t tell you guys. They get the money alright, but there are lots of things they go through.â€
Essien has not played for the Black Stars since he featured in a 2012 Nations Cup qualifier against Congo in 2011.