Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has revealed he did everything he could to play for Ghana at the World Cup.
Essien ruptured medial knee ligaments in January's African Nations Cup and was unable to shake off the injury to play in South Africa. Although named in the provisional 30-man squad, he was unable to get fit in time for the tournament.
Speaking to Chelsea's official website, Essien said: "Since my injury in January I had been working hard to come back for Chelsea and Ghana, but it wasn't to be.
"I did everything I could but eventually I succumbed to the injury and had to accept the fact that the body takes its own time to heal and you cannot rush things.
"I had my last assessment over a week ago with the Chelsea and Ghana doctors present.
"It took place at the hotel where all the Ghanaian players were staying and coming out of that meeting was very emotional for me.
"I spoke to Stephen Appiah, the captain, and all the other guys about my inability to join them and you could tell how disappointed they were.
"I have to admit no-one was more disappointed than me but that's life and I have to move on.
"I would like to wish the Black Stars the best of luck in South Africa. They need our support and all Ghanaians should get behind them."
Essien ruptured medial knee ligaments in January's African Nations Cup and was unable to shake off the injury to play in South Africa. Although named in the provisional 30-man squad, he was unable to get fit in time for the tournament.
Speaking to Chelsea's official website, Essien said: "Since my injury in January I had been working hard to come back for Chelsea and Ghana, but it wasn't to be.
"I did everything I could but eventually I succumbed to the injury and had to accept the fact that the body takes its own time to heal and you cannot rush things.
"I had my last assessment over a week ago with the Chelsea and Ghana doctors present.
"It took place at the hotel where all the Ghanaian players were staying and coming out of that meeting was very emotional for me.
"I spoke to Stephen Appiah, the captain, and all the other guys about my inability to join them and you could tell how disappointed they were.
"I have to admit no-one was more disappointed than me but that's life and I have to move on.
"I would like to wish the Black Stars the best of luck in South Africa. They need our support and all Ghanaians should get behind them."
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