Michael Essien reveals how he and Drogba's performance inspired EPL clubs to sign African players

Former Ghana midfielder Michael Essien has disclosed how his move to England gave clubs confidence to sign players from Africa.

The ex-Chelsea star joined Ivorian legend Didier Drogba to lead Chelsea to their most successful period in European football.

Later on John Obi Mikel of Nigeria and other likes Geremi Njitap all played a part in the mid-2000s for the Blues.

Chelsea went on to win several titles including their first UEFA Champions League title in 2012.

According to Essien, the performance of players like himself and Drogba instilled confidence in clubs who were interested in signing African players.

"It is always a big question if there is a big transfer over an African player. Didier [Drogba] was there, he showed it a year before I came [to Chelsea] and I followed it up," the Ghanaian told Sky Sports.

"I think he gave some trust to the rest of the clubs that they can spend the money and trust the process."

Essien spent nine years at Chelsea before leaving to join AC Milan in Italy, after a season on loan at Real Madrid.