Ghana’s coach, Chris Hughton, has officially confirmed the inclusion of Thomas Partey in the country’s 55-man provisional squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Despite the 29-year-old midfielder’s ongoing recovery from a muscle injury sustained after the October international break, Hughton remains optimistic about Partey’s availability for the tournament.
Although Partey recently returned to light training, his anticipated return to the Arsenal lineup is not expected until the following year. As the AFCON commences in the Ivory Coast on January 13, 2024, there is uncertainty about Partey’s full recovery in time for the tournament.
Hughton emphasized that clubs, including Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta, are obligated to release their players for international tournaments. Despite potential negotiations for modified player schedules, the coach asserted that, ultimately, there is no choice but to comply with the international call-ups.
“I don’t think it’s a debate. We have an AFCON in the month of January. This is when a particular country wants their players turning up for camp,” the Ghana coach said on talkSPORT.
“They [Arsenal and Arteta] don’t have a choice. I think what can happen and what has always happened is a relationship between clubs”
“And there will be some associations from countries that maybe allow a particular player to come two days later than the others. That’s something that has always been the case. But I think as regards a choice, there is no choice.”
The Black Stars find themselves in a challenging group alongside Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique for the 2023 AFCON.
The 34th edition of the AFCON is scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11.
