Chelsea hero Michael Essien has received a financial boost via Greek giants Panathinaikos.

Panathinaikos have made long-delayed payments to Essien in an effort to avoid losing nine points as the Greek club struggle with mounting debts and the threat of relegation.

A sports judge ordered Panathinaikos to settle debts with Essien, Argentine winger Sebastian Leto, formerly of Liverpool, and Spanish forward Toche within three days or lose the points, reports Reuters.

Club officials did not say how much money had been paid.

Essien moved to Panathinaikos from AC Milan in 2015 and left the following year after an injury-plagued season.