Ex-Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien excels in Indonesia league debut

Ghana midfielder superstar Michael Essien was the star attraction in the Indonesia league opener on Saturday when his Persib Bandung side were disappointingly held to goalless draw by Arema FC.

The former Chelsea showed his trademark power display in the match played at the Stadium Bandung Lautan Api but failed to score.

But the Ghanaian did not disappoint the local fans with his display even though Persib supporters were hoping they could start the season with a win.

Both teams used their best players in the match and Persib directly displayed Essien at the beginning of the match Meanwhile, Carlton Cole entered at the start of the second half.

In the 20th minute, Essien began showing his prowess. He provided measured a free kick from outside the penalty box however, the ball was cleared by an opponent.

Four minutes later, Essien groaning with pain in his shoulder after Hanif Sjahbani fouled him. Hanif was immediately given a yellow card.

Essien also caught the attention of the referee foul but the Ghanaian looked confused by the referee's decision.

He provided several passes but the striker could not take advantage until he was substituted in the 70th minute.

Starting line-up of the two sides:

Persib Bandung : 78-I Made Wirawan; 12-Henhen Herdiana (Supardi Nasir 46 '), 3-Vladimir Vujovic, 16-Ahmad Jufrianto, 6-Tony Sucipto; 24-Hariono, 8-Gian Zola ( Carlton Cole 46 '), 5- Michael Essien (Dedi Kusnandar 76'), 13-Febri Hariyadi; 17-Shohei Matsunaga, 7-Atep

Coach: Djadjang Nurdjaman

Arema FC : 1-Kurnia Meiga; 4-Syaiful Cahya, 3-Jad Noureddine, 44-Arthur Cunha, 87-Johan Alfarizie, 18-Adam's brow, 5-Bagas Adi Nugroho, 23-Hanif Sjahbani, 8-Nasir; 10-Cristian Gonzales, 11-Esteba Vizcarra

Coach: Aji Santoso