Why Essien Wants A Goat For Christmas

Michael Essien has revealed his dream Christmas present - a goat. The Chelsea midfielder, nicknamed the Bison, still relishes the Yuletide traditions in his native Ghana. And Essien, 27, sidelined by a hamstring injury, reckons there can be no better festive gift than one of the horny beasts."In Ghana the presents can range from your modern gifts - perfumes and clothes - to a goat or food exchanged between families," he said. "It's brilliant. Fancy waking up on Christmas Day to see a goat tied up in the garden - which is a present from your next door neighbour." Essien also admitted he used to be confused as to the meaning of Boxing Day."As a kid I always thought it was the day (Ghanaian boxing legend) Azumah Nelson always fought," he said. "I thought it was a day set aside for boxing fights. So I was surprised to find Azumah fighting in June once until it was explained to me!"