Essien desperate to play in weekend's El Classico

Fit-again Michael Essien is pushing himself to make his competitive debut for Panathinaikos in their Greek Super League derby against Olympiacos on Saturday.

The former Chelsea man gave himself a massive boost when he featured in last Saturdays friendly draw against Levadiakos.

He came on as a second-half substitute and did well to convince new coach Andrea Stramatsoni.

But Stramatsoni will have to decide if Essien is match-fit to play in the league.

Essien has not played competitive football for the Greens since signing on a free transfer after leaving AC Milan.