Michael Essien has wished the Black Stars good luck as the team continues preparations towards the World Cup finals in South Africa.

The midfielder, who was today ruled out of next month's competition after failing to recover from a knee injury made an appearance at Ghana's training camp in Paris.

Essien, who was almost tearful after a meeting between Ghana officials and some personnel from Chelsea over his injury situation, has left the camp.

Spokesperson for the Ghana Football Association says it was "an emotional" scene at the team's camp.

Randy Abbey told www.ghanafa.org: "At the meeting, Michael Essien reiterated his commitment to the Black Stars and explained how he wished to have been part of the team preparing for the World Cup.

"It was an emotional moment for him as he made his way upstairs to see his colleagues.

"He visited every member of the squad in their rooms and wished them well. Essien was close to tears.

"After meeting up with his teammates, he made his way out of the camp as he would be heading back to London to continue with his rehabilitation."

The FA's spokesperson however said no decision has been taken yet over whether Essien will be in South Africa in any capacity with Ghana.

"We haven't gotten to that stage yet. No decision has been taken as to whether he will be there [World Cup] in any capacity.

"For now, the most important thing is to allow him continue with his recovery programme which we are very concerned about."

Michael Essien after a review of his injury is expected is not to make full recovery until the end of July.

He has been recovering from a knee injury picked up during training at the Africa Cup of Nations in January.