Michael Essien has praised Milan coach Filippo Inzaghi, comparing him to former Rossoneri and current Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti.

Ancelotti spent eight years on the San Siro bench, lifting two Champions League titles as well as winning Serie A in 2004.

For one player to have played under the 55-year-old at Chelsea and who now finds himself under Inzaghi at Milan, there are similarities to be seen.

“I really like Inzaghi as a Coach,” Essien has begun in conversation with Sky Sport Italia. “He gives us the freedom to go out on the field and express ourselves, this is why we’re giving our best.

“I’ve had a lot of Coaches in my career, and Inzaghi reminds me a little of Ancelotti, who coached me at Chelsea.

“He also gave us the freedom to express ourselves on the field, and that’s what Pippo does. I think it’s the right way to do things.”

Essien battled injuries at the start of the season and that has restricted him to only three appearances.