Michael Essien believes former club, Olympique Lyon have a chance of causing an upset when they face Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final on Wednesday in Lisbon

The former Ghana international, who had a two-year spell at Lyon, thinks that despite the odds being stacked against the French side, anything is possible.

“It’s possible especially in this one-off tournament format, anything can happen in 90 minutes so you can’t rule them out,” he told Tv3.

“In the Champions League, they have the same old traits of hard work, belief and good organisation. They play to their strengths regardless of the opposition and that’s why they are doing so well.”

Lyon have been the surprised package in this year's competition. Having eliminated Juventus and Manchester City in the round of 16 and quarter-finals respectively, they are hoping to reach their first ever final.

However, to achieve that they must overcome Bayern Munich. The German champions are favourites to lift the trophy for the sixth time due to their incredible form this season.

They eliminated Chelsea in the last 16 before humiliating Barcelona 8-2 in the last eight.

Essien made 71 appearances and won two league titles during his time at Lyon. He left for Chelsea in 2005 and enjoyed a successful nine years in London, winning nine trophies.

The 37-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Azerbaijani side Sabail in July this year.