Former Ghana assistant coach Maxwell Konadu has expressed his approval of the inclusion of home-based players in the Black Stars squad for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Konadu, now the head of Ghana Premier League side Nsoatreman FC, emphasized the significance of a well-balanced squad with a combination of local and foreign-based players. In an interview with Kessben FM, he conveyed his satisfaction, stating, “It’s good to have a well-balanced squad.”
Believing that the presence of local players will serve as motivation, Konadu highlighted the positive impact such inclusion can have on the Ghana Premier League. He specifically pointed out Medeama duo Abdul Fatawu Hamidu and Jonathan Sowah, along with Kotoko’s Richmond Lamptey, as players who can contribute to the league’s development.
Expressing his support for the selection decisions, Konadu remarked, “Decisions are not made to satisfy any individual but to satisfy the entire Ghanaian population.” He conveyed optimism about the choices made and highlighted the importance of decisions that benefit the collective.
Acknowledging the upcoming challenge of the Africa Cup of Nations, Konadu emphasized the team’s current preparation phase in Kumasi. The tournament is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, January 13, and run until February 11, 2024.
“In my opinion, it’s good when you have a well-balanced squad like this,” Konadu stated, affirming his belief that the decisions made will positively impact the team’s performance in the prestigious tournament.
He further emphasized that the inclusion of local talents in the squad will extend beyond the immediate tournament, inspiring players in the local scene to elevate their performance and strive for excellence.
“I’m happy there are few local ones among them,” Konadu said, expressing his satisfaction with the representation of local players in the squad and highlighting the broader positive implications for the development of football within the country.
As the Black Stars continue their preparations for the Nations Cup, the presence of both experienced foreign-based players and emerging local talents reflects a strategic approach aimed at achieving success on the continental stage.
