Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has jumped to the defence of his team-mate Michael Essien the midfielder loves the Ghana national team.
Two serious knee injury Essien suffered while playing for the Black Stars nearly ended the Chelsea midfielder’s career.
His return to the Ghana fold has been a subject of debate with some accusing Essien of being unpatriotic.
But his Ivorian team-mate says Essien is committed to the Black Stars
“I think you have to understand that we are all proud to play for our country. He went through a very difficult moment with this knee injury,†Drogba said.
“I think rather than criticise him you guys should encourage him and show him the love.
“You think a player like that doesn’t want to play in the World Cup?
“It was big frustration for him not to play so you guys should support him because he is one of the best players in Africa.â€
Ivory Coast are in Ghana ahead of their clash with Benin in an African Cup of Nations qualifier on Sunday.