Michael Essien has sent a goodwill message to the Black Stars on the eve of their match with Senegal in the African Nations Cup in Egypt. In an exclusive interview with Ghana Today International newspaper in London today, Michael who missed the tournament due to an injury was upbeat and confident that the team will beat Senegal and go on to lift the cup.

The interview was made possible by Mr. Alex Nortey, chief executive of Star Meridian Sports Ltd., accredited World Cup ticket agents for the Ghana FA.

On rumors making the rounds that he feigned the injury, Michael quelled the remarks by saying he loved Ghana too much to play such a prank. He went on to say that he even though he has started light training, he still feels pain when he exerts pressure on the foot. He also said he plays for a team full of internationals and every one was proud of their country including him. He added that his work permit was not a problem because he was a regular for the Black Stars, and anyone thinking otherwise had got it wrong.

?Chelsea bought me because I played well for my country, and no one can stop me from playing for Ghana, the country I love?. ?I miss the Black Stars, and I am sad that I am not with my national team mates at this moment, but I am with them in spirit? he added.