Chelsea hero Michael Essien returns to his former Blues stomping ground
Veteran midfielder training at club's complex and insists he isn't ready to retire
AN ICONIC figure returned to Chelsea this week as Michael Essien made a welcome return to the club’s Cobham training complex.
The Ghanaian midfielder spent nine years at the club before leaving Stamford Bridge in 2014.
Aged 33, the former African Footballer of the Year is currently without a club so asked if he could work on his fitness with the Blues.
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Essien was released by Greek side Panathinaikos during the summer and has yet to find a new employer.
He is still determined to find a new club, and he called on some old friends for a favour as he attempts to keep up his physical conditioning.
It was via his Instagram account that he revealed his back at his former stomping ground.
Ex-Blues hero Essien posted snaps of him on an exercise bike at the base along with the caption: “Let’s gooo.”
His near decade at the Bridge was highly successful, as he won all the major honours including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup.
The veteran turns 34 in December, but he recently told BBC Sport of his desire to continue playing.
Essien said: “I am still active, I have been training to keep my fitness. I have not retired.
“I would definitely announce to everyone if I retire.”
Essien joined Chelsea in 2005 from Lyon, and after a loan spell with Real Madrid, he went on to play for AC Milan before moving to Greece last year.