Ghanaian international and Tottenham Hotspur forward Mohammed Kudus has revealed that former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien is his favourite Premier League player of all time.

In an interview with the Premier League, Kudus expressed deep admiration for Essien’s professionalism, leadership, and remarkable achievements both at club and national level.

“Pretty obvious, I think. He [Michael Essien] has won the Premier League, done a lot with Chelsea, he’s a big guy — I’ll go for him,” Kudus said.

Essien enjoyed a glittering career at Chelsea, winning two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League. His dominant presence in midfield made him one of the most respected African players in Europe.

Kudus explained that his admiration for Essien goes beyond his trophies.

Aside from playing for Chelsea, also for the national team, he’s a good role model who leads by example,” he said.

He further praised the former Ghana midfielder’s professionalism and composure throughout his career.

“He was not involved in any drama or anything — just pure football, and I really like that,” Kudus added.

Essien, who represented Ghana at multiple AFCON and World Cup tournaments, spent nearly a decade at Stamford Bridge between 2005 and 2014, cementing his place as one of Africa’s greatest ever midfielders.