Black Stars coach Chris Hughton has announced his 24-player squad for the upcoming crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Madagascar.
The squad includes the return of Alidu Seidu and Kwasi Okyere Wriedt, who missed out on the previous call-up due to injury. Excitement surrounds the inclusion of 19-year-old Ernest Nuamah, who has been in exceptional form for FC Nordjaelland and the Black Meteors.
However, notably absent from the squad are players from the local scene.
Unfortunately, Hughton will be without several key players due to injuries. Here are five notable players who won’t feature in the Ghana-Madagascar match:
Antoine Semenyo
Semenyo, who scored a crucial goal against Angola in the last international break, picked up an injury in the subsequent game against Chelsea. He has undergone surgery and is expected to recover before the start of the next football season.
Tariq Lamptey
The Brighton and Hove Albion defender has been battling injuries and has been absent from the last 17 matches. He was also ruled out of Ghana’s previous games against Angola. Lamptey is expected to recover in time for the upcoming season as his team prepares for the UEFA Europa League.
Abdul Baba Rahman
Similar to Lamptey, Baba Rahman has missed 17 matches and made only 10 appearances for Reading in the Championship following Ghana’s World Cup exit. His chronic injury problems have allowed Patrick Kpozo to feature in the previous call-up. Rahman will return to Chelsea to recover from his injury.
Mohammed Salisu
Salisu, known for his crucial goal against South Korea at the World Cup, has been dealing with injuries in the latter part of the season. His Southampton future is uncertain due to the persistent injury issues. Salisu has missed several games, and his return date is unknown.
Kofi Kyereh
Kyereh sustained a cruciate ligament rupture during a training session, sidelining him from action. Prior to his injury, he had been a key member of the squad and featured in all matches at the 2022 World Cup. Majid Ashimeru and Mohammed Kudus are expected to take his place in the team.
Despite the absence of these players, Ghana will rely on the remaining squad members to secure a vital victory against Madagascar.
