Social Media was set ablaze on Friday night after football fans tried making a case for each player, especially with Partey emerging as a subject of huge interest from European heavyweights.

The former Ghana international praised Partey’s performances for Atletico Madrid and the Black Stars, but believes Essien was miles ahead of the La Liga star.

“They [Partey and Essien] all have their strengths and weaknesses but I will say I was privileged to play alongside Michael Essien. We all know the work he did at Chelsea. Partey has done well and is still doing well but Essien was something else,” Laryea told Joy Sports.

The 39-year old played with Michael Essien at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations as Ghana placed third at the competition on home soil.

Laryea has hanged his boots but Essien currently plays for Azerbaijani club Sabail FK.