Crystal Palace forward Eddie Nketiah has revealed that African football legends Michael Essien and Didier Drogba played a pivotal role in shaping his career. The former Arsenal striker expressed deep admiration for both players, highlighting Drogba’s influence in particular.

Essien and Drogba, who were instrumental in Chelsea’s domestic and European triumphs, left a lasting impact on the Premier League. Nketiah, who spent time in Chelsea’s youth academy, recalled how watching them inspired him to dream big.

“There were loads! Growing up and being in Chelsea Academy, Michael Essien was a Ghanaian player at the time, but a big one would probably be Didier Drogba. He’s such an icon — a striker who really left his footprint with Chelsea and in the Premier League,” Nketiah told NBC Sports.

The young striker also spoke about Drogba’s infectious energy on the pitch and his signature celebrations.

“The joy he played football with, the smile he used to have on his face, the way he used to celebrate — dancing with teammates — that left a real impression on me. That’s why I always try to celebrate my goals whenever I score and just have that joy in football because that’s why we play — to be able to smile and enjoy our work that we are blessed to be able to do every day.”

So far this season, Nketiah has found the net three times in 23 appearances for Crystal Palace, aiming to channel the spirit of his childhood idols as he continues his career in the Premier League.