Ghana FA: Essien to return to internationals

Published May. 12, 2011 4:08 p.m. ET

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Ghana Football Association President Kwesi Nyantakyi says he expects Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien to return to action for the Black Stars in an African Cup of Nations qualifier in June.

Essien has not played for his country since early 2010, after injuries cut short his participation in last year's African Cup and forced him to miss the World Cup.

He was given time off by Ghana to concentrate on club duties with the English Premier League team.

Nyantakyi says ''the GFA has extended an invitation to Essien and we are sure he would join the squad in June.''

Ghana's next competitive game is the qualifying match against Republic of Congo on June 6.

Essien is also likely to play in a charity game between an Africa team and a World XI on May 25.