Ghanaian football legend Michael Essien is convinced that West Ham United forward Mohammed Kudus has the skill set to be one of the world's best players.

The Chelsea legend told TalkSport that Mohammed Kudus is destined for the top and that he sees him rubbing shoulders with the best footballers soon.

Michael Essien said that he has high expectations of Kudus and is convinced that he will soon dominate football.

"I rate him very highly, and he's got everything to be at the top. He is a good footballer, and he has everything to go to the top," Essien said.

Mohammed Kudus has been in the news lately following some responses he issued to social media users who accused him of performing below par in Ghana's game against the Central African Republic.

The midfielder came under criticism from some Ghanaians who were displeased with his performance and demanded more from him.

However, Kudus responded harshly and used some words that incurred the wrath of some Ghanaians, including ace sports journalist Jeffrey Asare.

Jeffrey Asare did not mince words in his condemnation of Mohammed Kudus' social media activities following Ghana's victory over the Central African Republic on Monday, June 10, 2024.

In Jeffrey Asare's view, Kudus risks not fulfilling his potential if he does not remain humble and show respect to Ghanaians.

Jeffrey Asare reminded Kudus that the Black Stars have seen far more superior talents than him and that the likes of Stephen Appiah, who, in his view, achieved more in football than Kudus, never disrespected Ghanaians.

"Kudus is average with the potential to be a top player in the future. He can only become a top player if he has a good attitude. The national team belongs to Ghanaians, and none of the national team players can match Abedi Pele's talent.

"You have the audacity to insult fans who criticize and appeal to you to release the ball early. The Black Stars have seen far better players than Kudus who never insulted fans who criticized them. If people are criticizing you and you are a professional player worth your salt, you keep quiet.

"Stephen Appiah has never spoken back at Ghanaians because he is a mature player. Those who are advising him should counsel him well; otherwise, he won't reach his full potential," he said.