Michael Essien tips Thomas Partey for Black Stars captaincy

Former Ghana and Chelsea midfielder, Michael Essien has tipped Thomas Partey for the Black Stars captain armband.

The Atletico Madrid midfield kingpin have been very impressive since breaking into the team of Atletico Madrid and helped the Spanish giants to win the 2018 UEFA Europa League defeating Olympique Marseille in the final.

However, the combative midfielder for some time now has been acting as the stand-in captain of the side in the absence of Asamoah Gyan.

The 24-year-old led the Black Stars team in the International friendly matches against Japan and Iceland in June.

And Essien, who has handed his playing boots is backing the Partey to become the new Black Stars captain.

“There are good players in the team but I think Partey is doing great and he can lead the team,” he told TV3.

“He is doing wonderful with his Club and the National team as well, he captained the team on a few occasions and I think he will be a good leader.”

Michael Essien, 33, announced his retirement from International football having played two World Cups and two Cup of Nations tournament with the Black Stars.