Essien ends CAN 2010 on a premature note, out for six weeks

(From William Ezah, GNA Special Correspondent in Luanda, Angola, courtesy Ministry of Youth and Sports)

Luanda, Angola, Jan. 20, GNA - Ghana's midfield general, Michael Essien left the Angolan capital Luanda, for his base in England

after the recurrence of his hamstring injury at training last Sunday, thus ending the tournament on a premature note despite Ghana's

qualification to the next stage of the competition. Information gathered by GNA Sports from the officials of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said, the player is expected to

undergo further treatment under the supervision of Chelsea's team doctors. Essien, who featured in the last 45 minutes of the game against Cote d'Ivoire watched Ghana's match against Burkina Faso from the

stands, whilst aided by clutches in and out of the stadium. The midfielder went through a thorough MRI scan in order to assess the state of his injury for further analysis. Coach Milovan Rajevic said the absence of Essien will be a big blow to the team due to his role and inspiration to members of the

playing body. The coach will now count on the strengths of Agyeman Badu, Kwadwo Asamoah and the possible return of Anthony Annan to

remain in the competition as they take on host nation Angola with the sole aim of progressing to the next stage of the tournament.