Michael Essien wants silverware in Greece

The Ghana legend has confirmed his excitement at moving to Panathinaikos and conveyed his ambitions for his stay at the domestic giants

Ghana icon Michael Essien has expressed his delight at joining Panathinaikos and revealed an ambition to win silverware during his time in Greece.

The former Chelsea midfielder moved to the club on a free transfer earlier this week with his deal at AC Milan due to finish at the end of June.

Speaking to Pana’s official website upon making his move, the midfielder had the following to say about his sentiments and intentions upon arriving at the Apostolos Nikolaidis Stadium.

"I am very happy to be here and to continue my career in Panathinaikos," the veteran midfielder began, speaking to the club’s official website.

"I am looking forward to meet my new team and winning trophies with my new team-mates,” he continued.

"I want to give back the love that everyone has shown me and to thank the fans that have welcomed me so warmly."

The 32-year-old had earlier taken to Twitter to thank the numerous club supporters who welcomed him to Athens on Monday as the Black Star arrived to complete his medical at the club.

The fans will be hoping that the form and fitness problems that affected his time at previous club Milan do not accompany him to Greece, particularly as the domestic giants have tied the player down to a two-year deal worth a reported £1 million-per-year.

The Champions League winner endured a troubled campaign in Lombardy, managing just seven starts in Serie A, and performing well below his usual standards.

Injuries have been a regular menace for the powerful midfielder over the last seven years of his career, and the dynamism and tenacity that marked the early portion of his career, making him one of the world’s finest in his position, have largely deserted him.

Beyond the European Cup, Essien won two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and one League Cup during his time at Chelsea; he also lifted the French championship twice with Olympique Lyonnais.