Main man: Michael Essien is central to Ghana's World Cup hopes

Caps: 45
Goals: 8
World Cup appearances: 3 (2006)
World Cup 2010 qualification: 11 appearances/1 goal

Club: Chelsea
Age: 26
Position: Midfielder

Chelsea's midfield 'bison' caused a stir internationally aged only 17, when he shone for Ghana in the Under-17 World Cup in New Zealand. Two years later his exceptional talents were capturing the attention of many Essien waas widely tipped to be one of Africa's next rising stars.

Indomitable for Chelsea, Essien played at the 2006 World Cup alongside Stephen Appiah and Sulley Muntari in midfield. But he found himself suspended for Ghana's second-round match against Brazil and could only watch his team-mates lost 3-0.

Upon the team's return to Ghana, Essien said that the team had gained invaluable experience and would be aiming to make the next finals. Mission accomplished.

His outstanding form at the African Cup of Nations last year suggested that he could make the difference for his country once more.