Despite not being fully fit Michael Essien is keen to join up with Ghana after recent visa problems.
Chelsea star's arrival in Angola could be delayed by up to a week
Ghana star Michael Essien admits that he is far from 100 per cent fit but he remains firmly behind the Black Stars' cause despite problems with his visa.
The Chelsea midfielder returned to training earlier this week following a hamstring injury and was expected to join up with his Ghana team-mates in Angola on Saturday.
However issues with the 27-year-old's visa mean that his arrival date could be pushed back to some time next week.
The Black Stars open their African Nations Cup campaign against Togo on Monday with Essien now almost certain to miss the clash.
"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.
Committed
The midfielder has been sidelined since early December with the hamstring problem but the former Lyon star assured Ghana fans he will five his all during the tournament.
"I will definitely be in Angola even though I feel I am not fully healed and don't feel 100%," he added.
"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."
