"It’s always a pleasure to play for my nation”

Ghana and Panathanaikos midfielder Michael Essien has hinted international football might not be over for him by claiming it’s always a pleasure to play for the Black Stars.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid star was part of the burst up that led to the suspension of players from Ghana’s chaotic world cup campaign in Brazil last year.

The box to box midfielder has seen injuries hamper his career in the past two seasons and only managed 22 games for Italian giants AC Milan last season before moving to Greece earlier this summer.

Having fallen out with management of the national team after refusing to warm up for Ghana’s final group game against Portugal in Brazil and yet to get a look in with newly appointed Black Stars coach Avram Grant, Essien insists it’s always been an honor to represent his national colours.

“Playing for my country is always been an honor. I love my country and I always want to give back to them,” Essien told theguardian.co.uk

“I could have done with winning the Africa cup of nations but you can win it all.”