‘Everyone invited deserves to play’ – Joseph Paintsil unperturbed by limited Black Stars playing time

Joseph Paintsil, the winger for the Black Stars, has expressed his unwavering commitment to playing for Ghana, even if it means starting from the bench consistently.

Despite his remarkable performances for Genk in the Belgian top flight, where he has scored 18 goals and provided 14 assists, Paintsil has faced difficulties in securing a regular place in the Black Stars’ starting lineup.

Paintsil was not included in the squad for the 2022 World Cup, but he made his return to the team when Chris Hughton announced his first squad for Ghana’s doubleheader against Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Although he started from the bench in both matches, he made an impact by assisting Ghana’s equalizer in the second game.

Nevertheless, Paintsil remains content and fully committed to giving his all for Ghana, regardless of the amount of playing time he receives.

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Joseph Paintsil emphasized that he respects the coach’s decision regarding the national team selection process. Recognizing that the national team aims to choose the best players to represent the country, he understands that every player invited must be someone the coach believes in and considers capable of starting.

“For me, it’s the coach’s decision. You know the national team is based on picking the best players to represent your country so everybody who is invited to the national team is a player that needs to be a starter and a player they have confidence in,” he said on 3FM.

Paintsil expressed his determination to prove himself even with limited opportunities. Whether he starts or not, he is mentally prepared to contribute and support his team whenever he is called upon, even if it means entering the game in the second half or at any other moment.

“So that’s why I need to show myself even if I’m given a few opportunities. So if I don’t start a game, I need to be ready mentally to help my team whenever they need me on the field of play even in the second half or something.

He highlighted his readiness to perform whenever given the chance. While playing the full 90 minutes or just the first half is not always guaranteed, he is willing to accept any role the coach assigns him. His primary focus is to demonstrate his abilities to the world and the passionate fans of Ghana.

“I’m always prepared. It’s not always about just playing the first half or 90 minutes but if the coach really wants that to happen then why not. For me, I’m always ready to showcase myself and to showcase to the world and the fans of Ghana.”