Annan linked with Arsenal and Man Utd

Rosenborg ace Anthony Annan admits he is flattered by the reported interest from Arsenal and Manchester United.

Speculation has been rife in Norway and the 23-year-old's home land of Ghana that the Premier League duo have stepped up their interest in the all- action midfielder.

The former Start player only signed for Rosenborg last year but already he has attracted interest from a whole host of clubs.

Annan was thought to be close to a switch to Blackburn last summer after impressing on trial but a move failed to materialise, although it now appears comparisons with national team-mate Michael Essien have alerted the Gunners and Red Devils.

"Essien is a top player, to be (compared) alongside him is amazing," he said.

"He has everything, class, power, touch, stamina, what a player, to compare him to me? People are crazy. I learn a lot alongside him, he is simply awesome.

"To me, to be followed by Arsenal and Man United, they are two great teams. I just won the league here. Let me enjoy it and we will see in the future."

For the time being Annan is determined to focus all his attention on the World Cup next summer and the African Cup of Nations in January.

"I can't wait to represent Ghana in South Africa, but in January we need to go for the African Nations Cup."