Michael Essien's wife buys 3rd-tier Como at auction

Akosua Puni Essien, the wife of former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien, has successfully purchased Lega Pro side Como at an auction for a reported €237,000.

The price doesn't include its training centre, according to The Associated Press, but the sale reflects a potential turning point for the lakeside club, which went bankrupt last year.

Como is seventh in one of the three regional divisions in Italian third tier and pushing for promotion to Serie B after a one-year absence.

Puni Essien said she is "honoured to be part of a club which has 110 years of history."

Como last played in Serie A in 2002-03.