Posted: May 18, 2011
Chelsea’s Ghanaian midfield ace, Michael Essien has lauded the impressive contribution of former Super Eagles captain, Kanu Nwankwo, to the development of African football and promised to give his full backing to whatever represents the Nigerian’s concerns.
The returning Black Stars skipper is one of the super stars expected to be in Lagos for the June 11 testimonial match for the ex-Arsenal striker who is unarguably one of the most decorated footballers to have come from Africa.
“Kanu has not only been a good ambassador for African footballers in Europe but has also been an inspiration to me and other players both on the continent and beyond,” the former Lyon star quipped.
“Apart from the fact that he (Kanu) had already made a name for himself while playing in Arsenal, he took pains to explain why playing in England would be beneficial to my career,” Essien explained.
To underscore his respect for the forme Ajax Amsterdam star, Essien about three-years ago, barely 24 hours after an FA Cup final match against Manchester United in Wembley, had to travel from London to the South-Coast of England to take part in a charity match organised by Kanu for his Heart Foundation at Portsmouth’s home ground, Fratton Park.
He also played for the entire duration of the game and people cannot but wonder how committed he was to the cause.
Other Black Stars of Ghana players that are expected to feature in the testimonial match are Sulley Muntari and Asamoah Gyan, while former Nigeria coach, Dutchman Jo Bonfere, has also sent in word regarding his readiness to participate.
Kanu retired from international football after the 2010 World Cup fiasco in South Africa, though he is still playing actively for his npower Championship side, Portsmouth in England.
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