Chelsea F.C. midfielder Michael Essien has completed his move to Serie A side AC Milan, according to the club’s official website, Chelseafc.com.
The Ghana international, 31, joined Chelsea from French giants Olympique Lyonnais for a then-club record fee of £24.4 million in August 2005.
Essien tallied 17 goals and 12 assists in 168 English Premier League appearances since making his debut for the Blues against Arsenal on 21 August 2005.
The 31-year-old midfield enforcer won nine trophies – FA Community Shield (2009), FA Cup (2006–07, 2008–09, 2009–10, 2011–12), League Cup (2006-07), Premier League (2005–06, 2009–10) and UEFA Champions League (2011–12) — during his eight-year stint at Stamford Bridge.
He was named Chelsea Player of the Year in 2007.
“To show Michael respect is to not stop him going,” said manager Jose Mourinho. “We would have been happy had he stayed because he is fantastic player for the team, but he’s given everything for the club and a great chance arrived for his future.
“I know he can continue to play at a high level and I wish him success and happiness in Italy and at the World Cup in Brazil.”
Essien added on Milan Channel: “I cannot wait to join the team in training and be a part of Milan’s family.
“I am very happy to have spoken to Clarence Seedorf, he is a nice person. It’s a pleasure to have heard what Seedorf had to say about me.
“I always give my best and battle for the team from the first minute until the last. I hope to achieve something important and give my best for Milan.”
Milan (7-7-7) are currently in ninth-place in the Serie A table with 28 points, which happens to be 28 points behind two-time reigning champions Juventus.
Swansea sign David Ngog from Bolton
Swansea City have completed the signing of former Liverpool striker David Ngog from Championship side Bolton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee.
Ngog, whose contract at the Reebok Stadium was set to expire at the end of the season, has signed a six-month contract with the Swans as cover for injured Spanish sensation Michu.
Michu, 27, underwent ankle surgery on 28 December and is expected to be sidelined at least another two weeks.
The 27-year-old ace could return in time to face Welsh rivals Cardiff City on 8 February.
Now then, Ngog, a former France youth international, is delighted with the opportunity to play in England’s top-flight this season and rightfully so.
“It’s a delight for me,” Ngog told Swanseacity.net. “I think Swansea are a very good club. They have shown over the last couple of years that they are a good Premier League side.
“I want to help the team win games and improve in the Premier League. If I can bring my quality to the team, I will be delighted.
“Swansea are a team who like to keep the ball and play good football. I will try to introduce myself to the team and to adapt.
“The manager [Michael Laudrup] was obviously a top player and as a manager he has proven he is very good as well. It will be really interesting to work with him.
“Overall, it’s a really good opportunity for me, and I am glad to be here.”
Swansea are priced at 8/11 to defeat Fulham at the Liberty Stadium on Tuesday evening.
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