After missing out of the 2006 edition of the African Cup of Nations through injury, Michael Essien looks set to make up for lost time as Ghana gets the 2008 tournament underway on Sunday on home soil.

His absence at the last competition drew a backlash from supporters who had questioned his commitment the national team and even doubted the extent of the injury. But the midfielder, one of the mainstays of Claude Le Roy’s game plans says he is happy to be back home.

"It's good to be back in Ghana, I feel really proud to be wearing my country's shirt. The reception when we all arrived at the airport was fantastic."

“The last time I missed out because of injury. This time round, I pray there wouldn’t be any injuries so that I can represent my country. I’m looking forward to it and as a player I’m going to give my best for the team and the nation,” the Ghana midfielder told www.ghanafa.org.

And with hours to Sunday’s kick off against Guinea at the Ohene Djan Stadium, there’s been much talk about pressure weighing heavily on the home team. But Essien says the Black Stars would do their best to achieve something for the nation.

“I think the pressure will be on but we will do our best to at least achieve something for the nation because they have been looking forward to it for so many years. It’s going to be tough but we will see what will happen in the end.”

The Black Stars’ game against Guinea in Group A would kick off the competition as 16 nations in four hosting cities in Ghana vie for the African Cup of Nations title.