Essien has been urged to focus on Real Madrid first before thinking of the Black Stars

By Patrick Akoto

Veteran coach Ken August does not want Michael Essien to rush for a return to the Black Stars but rather focus on recapturing his form at Real Madrid.

The 29-year-old was given an escape route by former boss Jose Mourinho who signed the player on a season-long loan on a transfer day deadline.

The combative midfielder was out-of-favour under manager Robert Di Matheo who preferred Mikel Obi for the holding role at the English giants- leaving the Ghanaina international on the bench for the club’s opening three games Premier League games.

Many have suggested that a return to the national team could give him a lifeline at the Bernabeau but the experienced coach insists the former Lyon man must first sort out his club future before thinking of his international career.

“Even though I’m a Ghanaian, I will advise he tackles Real Madrid first before making the normal international rounds,” August told Accra-based Joy FM

“If he is unable to settle well and starts jumping in and around I think it will not augur well for him,”

“Playing for Ghana is always there for him so let’s all support him to settle well at Real Madrid then we can think of him making a return to the national team.”

Essien last played for the Black Stars during an African Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo in Kumasi in 2011.