Matt Lockwood signs for Essien’s World X1

DUNDEE defender Matt Lockwood is set to go head-to-head with Michael Essien again this summer.

Lockwood is gearing up to take part in Real Madrid ace Essien’s Game of Hope in the Ghanaian capital, Accra, on 8 June along with other stars such as Didier Drogba, Emmanuel Adebayor, Ashley Cole, Freddie Ljungberg, and Florent Malouda. The Dark Blues stopper was invited back for the glamour showpiece following its 2011 success as part of Essien’s role as a peace ambassador for Africa, which saw him host the star-studded charity clash, with many of the stars poised to return a second time.

Lockwood will be part of World XI versus Africa XI in the game, which had Marcel Desailly and George Weah as managers two years ago. Lockwood said: “I played centre-half in 2011 so was directly up against Essien, which was some experience. It was an unbelievable day and I’m sure this one will be every bit as good. I’m thrilled to be asked back.”