Ex-Chelsea star Michael Essien delighted over 'incredible' reception in Athens ahead of Panathinaikos move

Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien is positively shocked over the hero's welcome he received when he arrived in Athens on Monday night ahead of his move to Greek side Panathinaikos.

Essien is expected to undergo his medical with the Greek giants on Tuesday before signing a two-year contract worth €1.2m per year.

But the former AC Milan star, despite having played for Chelsea in the past, was delighted with the way the fans of Panathinaikos received him in their numbers while chanting.

"Just touched down in Athens and the love from the Panathinaikos fans was incredible," the Ghana international midfielder wrote on Twitter.

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The 32-year-old, who refers to former coach Jose Mourinho as 'daddy', played for Chelsea between 2005 and 2015 where he won nine trophies, including two Premier League medals, four FA Cups and the Champions League.

Ghana international Essien posed with flare-wielding Panathinaikos supporters as he arrived at Athens International Airport on Monday night and will be given the opportunity to play European football after the Greens secured a Champions League spot at the weekend.