Essien available for Black Stars

Ghana would be set to leave Tamale Friday afternoon for the weekend’s 2010 World Cup qualifying against Mali on June 7 with one more squad addition, Michael Essien.

The Chelsea midfielder joins the Black Stars team in the northern part of the country today after completing his cross examination at an Accra High Court in a case in which his ex-girlfriend is seeking to clarify the status of their relationship in a divorce compensation claim.

Essien’s availability is expected to hand Milovan Rajevac a further boost in a preparation which has suffered some setbacks following key withdrawals.

The Serbian coach already is without Laryea Kingston, Derek Boateng, Stephen Appiah, Sulley Muntari and Asamoah Gyan.

The player’s return would certainly excite Rajevac who rates his midfielder as one of the best in the World.

“I am happy to have him available. We can count on him. He is one of the best in the World and his position in the team is very important for Ghana.

“It’s always a difference when you have him and don’t have him.

“Players trust him and have confidence when he is there. I hope with his return we are much stronger,” Rajevac said in an interview with www.ghanafa.org.

Ghana top the standings in group D with three points ahead of the meeting against Mali.