Pana reception encouraged me to sign for them - Essien

Ghana midfielder Michael Essien has revealed the warm reception he received at Panathinaikos forced him to sign for the Greek super powers.

The 33-year-old joined the Greens last summer from Italian giants AC Milan.

The former Chelsea man received thunderous reception upon his arrival in Athens.

And the Ghana international has spoken again about the warm reception he received.

"It was something crazy and I was not expecting it. I landed late in Athens, but I saw so many people and I was thrilled," he said

"I greatly appreciate the reception. When I saw so many people I decided to sign. I came for the exam and to see the environment, but after that everything was easier and I signed."