Former Chelsea Star Michael Essien Pays Tribute to Retiring West Ham Legend

• Michael Essien has paid a glowing tribute to West Ham legend Mark Noble following the announcement of his retirement
• Noble was given a befitting farewell by the London club after he served them for all of his football career
• Essien played against Mark Noble many times during his days with Chelsea and has grown fond of the player he so much respects

Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien has revealed his utmost respect for retiring West Ham legend Mark Noble.

Mark Noble is retiring an the end of the season and in an emotional farewell from West Ham, he was celebrated by fans of the club before their game against Manchester City.

Michael Essien, who faced Noble many times in the English Premier League, admitted in a message on Twitter he does not support West Ham but has so much respect for the midfielder.

Revealed! The top 10 most skilled footballers in the world right now

Football

"I don't support West Ham but I respect you and I have always admire you as a player Mark, enjoy your retirement and I wish you all the best. Good luck man," wrote Michael Essien on Twitter.

Mark Noble made 549 appearances for the club in a career that has spanned 18 years at the London club.

Michael Essien was rival to Noble as he featured for the Blues between 2004 to 2012.

Mark Noble retires after 18 years at West Ham

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Mark Noble marked the end of his Premier League career in an emotional atmosphere at the London Stadium as West Ham held Manchester City to a 2-2 draw on Sunday, May 15.

Noble was making his 549th appearance for the Hammers in a career that has spanned 18-years representing the just the London team.

According to a report via the Evening Standard, the 35-year-old midfielder, who was in tears after the game, sent an emotional message to West Ham supporters whom he called family.

Fascinating facts about the top 10 Manchester United managers of all time

Football

Chelsea celebrate ex-Ghana international Michael Essien on 39th birthday

Former Black Stars midfielder, Michael Essien has been receiving well wishes from former clubs and fans across the globe as he turned 39 on Friday, December 3, 2021.

The former Chelsea, Real Madrid and AC Milan player has been celebrated by the clubs he played for as well lovers of football.

In messages and videos posted on Social Media, several football followers have sent in goodwill messages with other sharing some of his great goals.