Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi believes Michael Essien never got the appreciation he deserved.

Mikel and Essien shared the pitch for most parts of their careers, representing the Blue side of London.

Having arrived at the club in 2005, Essien enjoyed a great spell in a Chelsea shirt, but his career didn’t end as he would have wanted, as injuries limited his playing time in the latter part of his days at Stamford Bridge.

Playing the “Winner Stays On” challenge with TNT Sports, Mikel described Essien as an underrated player as he highlighted the Ghanaian’s characteristics.

"Michael Essien didn’t get the recognition he deserved. We talked about so many great midfielders, not just in Chelsea but in the Premier Leaguee," he said.

"We called him the train. When he goes, it is difficult to stop; power, speed, technique. Everything he had."

The two players were together on the field for 125 games for the Blues, winning 82, drawing 23, and losing 20.