Michael Essien reveals being forced out of retirement before World Cup 2014

Former Ghana midfielder Michael Essien says he was forced out of International football retirement ahead of the FIFA World Cup in Brazil 2014.

The ex-Chelsea midfielder, who has finally called it a quit for International football revealed he had no intention of coming out of retirement when he previously retired.

However, ahead of the World Cup in Brazil, he was convinced to come help the team.

Speaking on GHOne TV’s Cheers show, Essien, who has since the World Cup been out of the Black Stars team, stated he was persuaded to come out of retirement to help his country.

“If I’m called to play for the Black Stars? No, because I’ve retired.

“I even retired before we went to Brazil. And they came for me to come and help which I did but I went to Brazil and they treated me like…” Essien complained.

The World Cup in 2014, for many Ghanaians is a shameful expedition which should be forgotten. Essien opened the lid of the rumours.

“It was a big misunderstanding with the appearance fee and stuff like that. We’ve been to World Cups and things never happened like that so I don’t know why all of a sudden something like this should happen like that to create a big misunderstanding between players and officials.

“I think with everything that’s coming up [from #Number12 documentary], now Ghanaians are more aware – they will understand. I’ve not watched anything; I’ve just heard. I don’t have time to watch that rubbish. I mean it’s sad, everything…” Essien also stated.