AC Milan have "categorically denied" that Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien has contracted Ebola while on national team duty.

Reports in Ghana over the weekend claimed Essien was being treated after contracting the deadly virus.

However the player's Serie A club released a statement which said: "AC Milan categorically denies the alleged reports from abroad about its players.

"Such reports are totally without foundation and what is more were never confirmed by any employee of the club."

The Daily Times Nigeria and Newswire NGR both cited an AC Milan official in the report which claimed Essien had contracted Ebola.

While the club claimed no employee spoke to either news outlet, the player was quick to allay fears with a statement on Twitter, accompanied with a photo on Instagram showing him in a 'thumbs-up' pose.

"I'm very fit and very healthy, no truth in the internet rumours that I have contracted Ebola. I'm well & will be training as usual tomorrow," said Essien.

"The Ebola virus is a very serious issue and people shouldn't joke about it. Whoever wrote this article is very unprofessional and insensitive.!!!"

While Essien's followers encouraged him to launch a legal process against the news outlets, the player posted another message on Monday morning.

"The true victims of Ebola deserve better and our thoughts & prayers are with them and their families."

Source: AFP