Michael Essien has hailed former Chelsea teammate following the latter’s retirement from football.

The Ghanaian midfielder and Didier Drogba played together at Chelsea from 2005 to 2015.

Didier Drogba who gave several defenders torrid time in his football career has finally hanged his boot after plying his trade in the U.S.A for Phoenix Rising Star- a side he owns.

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Drogba announced his retirement on Twitter, saying: "I wanna thank all the players, managers, teams and fans that I have met and made this journey one of a kind. If anyone tells you your dreams are too big, just say thank you and work harder and smarter to turn them into a reality."

However, Essien has hailed Drogba and stated that he is one of the best players ever to play with.

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Mon frere @didierbrogba. It was a pleasure playing with you. You inspired many of us to go the extra mile and you have been a great ambassador for African Football and @chelseafc. Thank you brother and good luck in your future career.⚽ pic.twitter.com/ACDo8sbl0x

— Michael Essien® (@MichaelEssien) November 22, 2018

Drogba won three Premier League titles in his first eight years at Chelsea, including in each of his first two seasons in England, as well as four FA Cups and two League Cups.