Didier Drogba has jumped to the defence of teammate Michael Essien and urged Ghanaians to show the midfielder ‘love’.

Essien’s continuous absence from the Black Stars remains a major talking point even with crucial Nations Cup qualifiers around. And the subject came up again at a press conference by the Ivory Coast team as they prepared for their Nations Cup qualifier against Benin on Sunday.

Drogba put in a passionate plea for a player he calls ‘my brother’ and says rather than criticise him, the player should be encouraged.

“I think u have to understand that we are all proud to play for our country. He went through a very difficult moment with this knee injury,” Drogba said.

“I think rather than criticise him you guys should encourage him and show him the love. You think a player like that doesn’t want to play in the World Cup? It was big frustration for him not to play so you guys should support him because he is one of the best players in Africa.”

Drogba will take to the field against Benin determined to prove alongside his other team mates that they have what it takes to become African champions.

The Elephants’ inability to win a major trophy despite boasting what many people consider the best collection of individual players on the continent has been a major talking point since their arrival in Accra but Drogba insist the trophies will come.