Black Stars coach Chris Hughton has confirmed that there will be no replacement for Gideon Mensah, who will miss the AFCON qualifier against Madagascar due to injury.
The talented defender based in France will not be available for the crucial match against Madagascar due to persistent knee pain.
During a press conference on Tuesday, the former Premier League manager stated that he sees this as an opportunity for another player to step up and contribute to the national team.
Hughton emphasized that the Black Stars have a competitive squad where every player is pushing to earn a starting spot, and there is no definitive first 11.
“It’s an opportunity for somebody else. This is an international team. There is no absolute standout first 11. Whatever the squad is, whether 24 or 25, the players, they are all pushing to start,”
He further stated that no replacement has been called up at the moment, but they will continue to assess the situation throughout the week. If necessary, they might consider placing a player on standby.
“We haven’t brought a replacement in, we will work this week and if we feel different after this few days then we will assess than again, perhaps somebody will be on a standby situation but at this moment, we are not bringing any replacement” he said.
Ghana will travel to face Madagascar on Sunday, June 18, 2023, in the penultimate AFCON qualifier.
Currently sitting at the top of the table with 8 points, a victory in this away match could secure Ghana’s qualification for the AFCON tournament, which will be hosted by Ivory Coast next year.
