Ex Chelsea star and Ghana midfielder Michael Essien is part of a select group of former elite footballers that have descended on China ahead of the upcoming Super Penguin Masters fixture in Shanghai.

Former Real Madrid and Barcelona rivals Carles Puyol and Roberto Carlos were among the first to arrive, and will both feature in the same defensive line for the first time.

Manchester United icons Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville are also set to feature, while former Real Madrid and Liverpool forward Fernando Morientes will be leading the attacking line.

Essien and Spain and Valencia legend Gaizka Mendiata are using the opportunity to explore and discuss Chinese youth football as part of the Shanghai International Legends Stars Tournament. Here are some pictures of the duo below:

By Daraja Mutari/Ghanaguardian.com