Panathinaikos have made long-delayed payments to Michael Essien and two others in an effort to avoid losing nine points as the Greek club struggle with mounting debts and the threat of relegation.

A sports judge ordered Panathinaikos to settle debts with Essien, Argentine winger Sebastian Leto and Spanish forward Toche within three days or lose the points.

Club officials did not say how much money had been paid.

Panathinaikos have cleared a long-delayed debt to former Chelsea star Michael Essien

Essien moved to Panathinaikos from AC Milan in 2015 and left the following year after an injury-plagued season.

Normally title contenders, Panathinaikos are currently 10th in the 16-team Greek league.

AEK Athens lead the top flight with 60 points from 26 matches, two ahead of PAOK with three games remaining.