Ghana have received a welcome boost with the news that star player Michael Essien has returned to full fitness.

Essien tore his hamstring in a Champions League game for Chelsea on December 9th, and it was feared the 27-year-old midfielder may miss the majority of the African Cup of Nations tournament. But Essien has returned to full fitness and is due to join up with his Ghana teammates in Angola on Saturday, although he is still doubtful for the Black Stars' opening game against Togo on Monday.

Throughout the tournament Essien is expected to be accompanied by a Chelsea doctor, according to reports from the BBC.