We are not surprised by Essien inclusion - Sanni Diarra

The Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Sanni Diarra says the members of the football association were not surprised by the decision taken by Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah to include Michel Essien in the Black Stars squad to face Zambia on the 6th of September.


Almost every member of the football fraternity in Ghana was in total shock when news broke of the Chelsea star’s return to the national team, two years after he represented the nation.

Speaking to Accra-based radio station Happy FM, Sanni Diarra said: “We were not caught by surprise when we heard Essien had been included in the squad. Kwesi Appiah is a quiet figure, and likes to work diligently.”

“We were always in contact with Michael and knew at some point in time he would make a return. We had a verbal agreement with him, he asked us for time to recover from his injuries, and we supported him throughout, and now he is ready.”

“All the returnees have confirmed they will be arriving for the match. It has taken the Zambians by surprise. I have received a lot of calls from Zambian journalists in the last 24 hours.”

“We have lost twice against them, and Ghanaians expect a good result this time round. So we need our best players to ensure that we secure a resounding victory.”

On the absence of Sulley Muntari, he confirmed that the midfielder’s letter of apology came after Kwesi Appiah had finalized his plans, and Muntari would be available for selection after the Zambia game.

“Sulley’s letter came after Kwesi Appiah had finalized his team plans, therefore he could not be included in the squad. Sulley understands the decision. He even phone the coach personally after the letter to render his apology again.”

“He will be considered for selection after the Zambia game”,  he said.