Accra, Feb. 13, GNA - Chelsea Football Club has invited the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to Stamford Bridge over the Michael Essien's "doubtful" injury saga in order to repair any damage the issue may have caused their relationship.
The GNA Sports has learnt that the two parties are however, yet to agree on a date for the meeting.
A fax message from Peter Kenyon, Chief Executive Officer of Chelsea to the President of the GFA, Mr Kwesi Nyantekyi expressed regret at the player's inability to play for Ghana due to the ligament. The message emphasized that Essien's absence was not deliberate as being speculated in the media, adding that the player would have been released if he were fit.
The GFA earlier wrote to the English Premier Club demanding explanation why it refused to release the player under FIFA Article 14. The article states that players be released at least seven clear days before matches.
The GFA also demanded an authenticated medical report from Chelsea on Essien's post-injury condition, which made the English Club to rule him out from the Cup of Nations in Egypt for 28 days.
The Graphic Sports reported on its February 10-13 edition that the medical report sent by Chelsea, weeks before the commencement of the Nations Cup, was not explanatory enough, a clue that has informed the decision to seek further clarification.
Some FA members and coach Ratomir Djukovic were alleged to have been bribed by Chelsea to compromise on the release of the player. The Stars were bundled out of the CAN 2006 at the group stage after recording just a win over Senegal. They lost to neighbours Nigeria by a lone goal and were surprised by minnows Zimbabwe 2-1 in the final group match.
