Stephen Appiah admits Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien was in tears after suffering his knee injury while on duty with Ghana.

Appiah said: "The pain he was in and the tears he was shedding were so upsetting.

"He cried like a child and it upset us all. I know exactly what he was going through and have reassured him that we are all there for him.

"I have spoken to him at length and I think he understands the fact there are ups and downs in every aspect of life and you can come through the difficult times if you stay strong.

"I will urge all Chelsea fans and all Ghanaians to support Michael."

Essien's agent Fabien Piveteau said: "I am afraid it's a big problem. A big problem."