Essien is still committed to Panathinaikos

Ghana midfielder Michael Essien put reports of his imminent exit from Panathinaikos behind him as he lasted the entire duration to help the side to a massive 4-2 win over Panaitolikos on Monday night.

The 32-year-old has reportedly agreed to an offer from Turkish club Antalyaspor where he could be linking up with his friend Samuel Eto’o who is now player-coach of the side.

Essien, however, remains tight-lipped on these reports, choosing rather focus on his business on the field of play.

The former Chelsea star has only started repaying the huge investment made in him by Panathinaikos by playing games.

He was injured for most parts of the first half of the season when he first arrived at the club.

Essien once more again proved his importance to the Greens by playing as a shield just in front the back four in the massive win over Panaitolikos on Monday.

He was however booked in the 36th minute but maintained his cool thereafter to see out the remainder of the game without getting sent off.

This now sees Essien’s tally of games rise to six as Panathinaikos maintained their 3rd place in the Greek top flight.