Ghana Head Coach Chris Hughton has been sharing his thoughts on Ghana’s readiness for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Matchday 4 qualifier against Angola on Monday.
The former Norwich City, Tottenham Hortspur, Brighton and Hove Albion and Newcastle United manager is aiming for his second win on the bounce after leading the Black Stars to a 1-0 win against Angola on Thursday.
He also reacted to Athletic Club striker Inaki Williams’ seven games without a goal for the Black Stars.
Williams, who featured in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar without scoring, was given a starting position in the matchday three clash at Baba Yara Stadium but was substituted in the second half without a goal to his name.
According the Black Stars boss, “It’s very much part and parcel of the game. What we know in Inaki is that he is a very good player, playing in a good team in a good League. I think with somebody like Inaki it’s not all about goals.”
“He plays consistently for his team. But I think it’s his contribution in the game; he is a player that makes a lot of runs. He stretches the play a bit and sometimes it benefits other players.
“So I think as regards his goal scoring with us and the Black Stars, it will come but sometimes it doesn’t come as quick as what you want. What is more important for us is his contribution in the game and for the team that is the most important thing.” He concluded.
Meanwhile, Ghana’s leading top scorer Asamoah Gyan, has empathized with the challenges Williams faced, having played in Europe all his life and now adjusting to the African game.
“We need to give him more opportunities,” Gyan stated in an interview with Kumasi-based Akoma FM.
“He is improving even though he hasn’t found his feet yet, but I’m sure his first goal will open the floodgates, and many more will follow. His first goal will boost his confidence level. Let’s keep supporting him.”
The Ghanaian legend,however encouraged fans to back the former Spain forward, who will be looking to score his first goal for the Black Stars in the reverse fixture against Angola in Luanda.
A win in that match will secure Ghana’s qualification for the AFCON tournament next year.
