Former Ghanaian international, Lee Addy, has urged the current Black Stars technical team to trust the local players selected for the 2023 AFCON, expressing confidence that they will represent the Ghana Premier League admirably.
Addy, who earned his first senior invite as a local player in 2009, believes players like Richmond Lamptey (Asante Kotoko) and the Medeama SC duo Jonathan Sowah and Abdul Fatawu Hamidu can showcase the strength of the Ghanaian league on the continental stage.
Recalling his own experience, Addy emphasized the need for hard work and focus when transitioning from the local league to international competition.
He believes that providing opportunities for these local talents will not only benefit them individually but also contribute to the positive image of the Ghana Premier League globally.
Because I remember when I was playing in the local side, I was voted the best player two times and everybody knows that I could make it but when I got there, I got to know that it is a different ball game altogether.
“You have to work extra hard, you have to be focused and you are meeting with foreign players and you representing the local guys, everybody is counting on you.
“You have to do everything possible to stay there and if you are able to stay there then that means that the local league is also doing well.
“I think they have to give them chance, there are a couple of players who are doing well and I believe they deserve a chance.
“If they are given the chance I believe they will do well.” Lee Addy told Radio Gold Sports.
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is set to kick off on January 13, 2024, in Cote D’Ivoire, with Ghana placed in Group B alongside Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique.