African football greats, Emmanuel Adebayor and Michael Essien have applauded Ivorian legend Dedier Drogba's impact on the continent.
Drogba on Wednesday announced his retirement from the game calling time on an illustrous 20-year career in which the centre forward won four Premier League titles and the 2012 Champions League.
Essien who played together with Dogba in England for Chelsea and he celebrated his former teammate, indicating he inspired most of them to reached the levels they aspired.
"Mon frere Dedier Drogba. It was a pleasure playing with you. You inspired many of us to go the extra mile and you have been a great ambassador for African Football and Chelsea. Thank you brother and good luck in your future career," he posted on Twitter.
Meanmwhile, Emmanuel Adebayor played most often against the Ivorian but states he had a positive influence on his career.
"My brother, Dedier Drogba. congratulations on a very accomplished career and I wish you even more success in retirement. You have certainly earned it and more Dedier Drogba," he also posted on Twitter.
Drogba has his final club stint in the United States for Phoenix Rising. He had two spells at Chelsea, scoring 164 goals in 381 games having spearheaded the west London club’s revival under owner Roman Abramovich.