Dutch-born defender Jeremie Frimpong has named Michael Essien as the footballer he idolized while growing up.

“I idolized Michael Essien growing up, saw what he did at Chelsea, Real Madrid, and the national team,” Frimpong, who is of Ghanaian heritage, told 3Sports.

“I also like Christian Atsu and the Ayew brothers. I watched the 2010 World Cup and fell in love with Ghana because the players gave their all,” he added.

Michael Essien remains one of the best players to have ever played for the senior national team, the Black Stars.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder played a crucial role in the country’s qualification for the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

He also featured prominently in the qualification for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. He went on to play 59 times for the Black Stars.

Meanwhile, Jeremie Frimpong is currently in Ghana for the Christmas holidays.