Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has spoken candidly about the disappointment of being left out of the Black Stars squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, describing the decision as a painful and unexpected blow in his international career.
Kingston, who also missed out on the 2006 tournament, said the 2010 exclusion came as a surprise not only to him but to several members of the national team at the time.
Speaking in an interview with 3Sports, the former winger—now head coach of Uganda’s U-17 national team—said the moment remains difficult to reflect on, even years later.
“For me, the whole situation in 2010 came as a huge shock. It shocked not only me but most of the players as well,” Kingston said.
“Even today, some of my former teammates still tease me about it, but honestly, I have always felt it was unfair.”
He recalled the moment he was informed during Ghana’s pre-tournament camp, describing how a late-night call led to a meeting with the technical team.
“When I entered the conference room, I saw the entire technical team there. Nyantakyi was present, Dr Randy Abbey was there, the coach and his backroom staff were all seated. That was when they informed me about the decision. I was completely disappointed,” he added.
Kingston also dismissed suggestions that he reacted aggressively to the news, insisting that while he was emotional, he never became violent as has sometimes been claimed.
Despite his omission, Ghana went on to enjoy its most successful World Cup campaign in history in 2010, reaching the quarter-finals in South Africa.
