Ghana FA blasts English press over Essien reports

The Ghana Football Association has launched a scathing attack on the English press for propagating falsehood over the injury of Michael Essien.

English newspaper Daily Star on Friday emphatically reported that the GFA will send its doctors to check on the veracity of Essien's injury.

A hamstring strain suffered in Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Apoel Nicosia is threatening Essien's participation in next month’s African Nations Cup.

The report in the Daily Star sparked concerns that Essien and other players are faking injury to prevent them from playing for the Black Stars at the tournament in Angola.

But the GFA has angrily denied the story in the Daily Star, suggesting the quotes and story were made up.

“We aware of their (players) patriotism and have no cause to doubt their injuries," Executive Committee member of the GFA and spokesperson, Randy Abbey said.

"Our medical team will collaborate with their clubs to keep track on their progress.

"The Ghana Football Association does not believe there’s any conspiracy on the part of any of the injured players or their clubs to invent an injury.

"They are professionals who have a sense of credibility.

"It’s a difficult time for them and all they need is our support and that of the entire nation. We wish them a speedy recovery.

"Once they recover, the country stands to benefit from their availability.

The GFA spokesperson also stressed the need for reports which tend to accuse the sport body and players of complicity in such circumstances to cease.

“Such conspiracy theories only tend to injure the reputation of people. The FA is committed to sending out a team which will always play to win," he said

"Players of such quality are always needed to play for the nation.”

The quotes in the English newspaper Daily Star failed to name any official in the Ghana FA.

Essien will be out of action for between three to four weeks.