Essien plays down Lyon exit

LYON, (SW) ? Lately linked with a number of top European sides such as Real Madrid and Arsenal, Lyon midfielder Micka?l Essien has officially denied speculations he was to leave Gerland during the winter break.

The former Bastia player, who moved to French champions Olympique Lyonnais in 2003, has impressed his club with a series of exquisite performances, but the Ghana international establishing himself as one of the best midfielders of the French league, a number of top European sides started keeping tabs on his progress with l?OL.

Linked with Arsenal and Real in the last couple of weeks, the midfielder then decided to come clear on his future, as he confirmed he was to remain at Gerland for the rest of the season.

?I was really pleased to see big European clubs like Real Madrid and Arsenal were showing interest in me. But l?OL is also a top European club and I have no intention of leaving during the winter transfer window,? said Essien on his official website.