Court Case May Shut Michael Essien Out Of World Cup Clash Against Mali

Michael Essien is a huge doubt for the Black Stars' World Cup qualifier against Mali in Bamako on Sunday as a result of an outstanding legal dispute with his ex-girlfriend.

The 26-year-old Chelsea ace is contesting a suit by his ex-lover, Dela Ackumey, who is seeking huge divorce compensation after a failed attempt in England.

Essien has insisted that he did not marry Ackumey even though a traditional wedding ceremony was performed between him and the lady in Ghana.

But Ackumey, who started the case in Ghana in 2007, realised that she was not having her way and the compensation package she wanted, so travelled as a student to pursue the case in England, where divorce settlements are huge.

However, after her attempts failed in England she has returned to Ghana as her last resort.

"It will depend what happens in court but I will try and do my best to get everything quick. As it stands now, it's 50-50," Essien told reporters.

"It's been going on for years now. I still try to put it behind me and go on the pitch and do my best. It's not going to take any effect.

"I have got some two or three days in court. I have to go and sort everything out and once I'm done I will go and join the team in Tamale," he added.

"I want to be in camp with my team-mates but as I said I need to sort my court case out before I can join the team and the fans should not worry because I'm here for Ghana and I will do everything possible to join the team."

Samm Audu, Goal.com