'I hope Ghanaians appreciate me' - Michael Essien

Former Black Stars midfielder Michael Essien has opened up about his time with the national teams of Ghana.

The legendary Chelsea midfielder enjoyed a glittering club career, but his time with the senior national team has often been criticized, with Ghanaians citing a lack of commitment to the Black Stars.

Essien made 59 appearances for the Black Stars, scoring nine times, and was part of Ghana's maiden team at the FIFA World Cup. The 41-year-old played a pivotal role as Ghana secured their first World Cup qualification in 2006.

The former Chelsea star also played at two Africa Cup of Nations, starring for Ghana at CAN 2008 before picking up an injury in his first match at AFCON 2010, ruling him out of the rest of the tournament.

Essien, who now works as an assistant coach at FC Nordsjaelland, remains one of the few players to have represented Ghana through all levels.

Meanwhile, the ex-Ghana star is unsure if Ghanaians appreciate what he has done for the country.

"I hope they are. I think I am one of the few players to have gone through every age category, represented the country at those levels, and succeeded, so I hope they are appreciative of my service to the country," Essien told Joy Sports.