Ghana midfielder Michael Essien's arrival day for the African Cup of Nations seems to have been further delayed by visa problems even though he is desperate to join the Black Stars in Angola.

The stand-in captain for Ghana was scheduled to join the team on Saturday in Cabinda even though he was not expected to play in Monday's opening group game against Togo.

But his arrival day has been further pushed back because of the stringent red-tape in acquiring the visa to the Southern African country.

Many journalists and officials attending the three-week event have been denied visas to the Southern African country, which has reduced the number of reporters covering the tournament.

The Ghana Football Association and Caf have intervened to ensure that Essien gets his visa in time but it is likely he will receive it until Monday, officials have been assured.

The midfielder is frustrated about the delay of his departure for the tournament as he is keen on helping the Black Stars to win their fifth title.

"We have been working assiduously on obtaining a visa to Angola and until that comes through I am uncertain I will be there on Saturday," Essien told Ghanasoccernet exclusively.

"I will definitely be in Angola because I have the chance to fully serve my country once again."

Essien confirmed reports in the English media that he will miss the first game on Monday against Togo but could be available when they play Ivory Coast four days later.

Even though he trained with Chelsea for the first time yesterday since suffering a hamstring injury, some pain still persists and it’s the reason why Chelsea will be sending a doctor with him to Angola.

"I will definitely be in Angola even though I feel I am not fully healed and dont feel 100%," Essien told Ghanasoccernet.

"I also lack match practice but will be there to fight for my place in the team for the good of Ghana.

"It may not be Saturday but most probably early next week I will be with my colleagues. But I am in constant touch with the team."

The Ghana stand-in captain picked up his injury in a UEFA Champions League Group match at Stamford Bridge early last December.

Even though the Black Stars officials contemplated leaving him out of the tournament, he insisted on recovering well in time to play for his country

His availability will be a huge boost the Black Stars ahead of their second Group B clash against Ivory Coast where he faces his two Chelsea team-mates.