I look back and smile with pride - Michael Essien speaks on career success

Former Ghana international Michael Essien says he will be putting an end to his transcendent career with "no regrets."

Essien, who is without a club after being released by Indonesian giants Persib Bandung, will be fondly remembered as one of the stars of Ghana's golden generation - having played a key role in the country's qualification to three FIFA World Cup tournaments.

The 35-year-old insisted that he has enjoyed every bit of his career as a footballer and will hang up his boots with a broad smile after donning the jerseys of elite clubs likes Olympique Lyon, Chelsea, Real Madrid and AC Milan.

"I look back and smile with pride at what I have achieved and what I have done in football," Essien told KweseESPN.

"Personally, I have thoroughly enjoyed and loved every bit of my football career."

"I know one day it will come to an end and when it does, I will have some very good memories."

"The idea of stopping is not difficult for me because I have known for some time now that I'm getting to that point."

"The most difficult part is what to do after football."

The midfielder spent nine successful years with English side Chelsea - where he won ten trophies between 2005/06 - 2009/10

"I had a great time when I was there [Chelsea]," said, the midfielder, who won the Blues' Best Player award in 2006-07.

"I trained and played with some great players and it made me a much better player because I needed to be at my very best to play.

"I am glad I was part of the generation that made the team such a household name around the world."

Essien featured for Bastia in France after leaving Ghana Premier League side Liberty Professionals. He was also on the books of Greek outfit Panathinaikos in 2015-16.