Ghana head coach Chris Hughton has explained the reasons behind the inclusion of Andre Ayew in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations squad for the qualifier against Central African Republic, despite public criticism.
The former Nottingham Forest player is named for the Black Stars’ final game in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualification fixture despite being unattached.
However, Hughton remains unperturbed by the situation and asserts Ayew’s leadership qualities are important to the side.
“Growing perception is not something that means too much to my point of view as the head coach.
“It’s about the squad that I want and the reason for each player to be in the squad. What is the perception outside? I don’t know.
“This is not my concern,” Hughton told Asaase Radio in an interview.
Twenty-three players have reported to camp in Accra as Ghana hit the ground running for the all-important Africa Cup of Nations Group E clash against Central African Republic on Thursday, September 07, 2023.https://t.co/M4Bbjma7BQ
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) September 5, 2023
“What I have to do is pick a squad that is made up of young, exciting players and much more experienced players. There will always be a lot of debate about who should be in the squad and who shouldn’t.
“We are knowledgeable about the number of games that he has played,
“And we also know what he means to the squad. He is our captain; I know what he gives the squad.”
Ghana leads Group E and needs a point in their upcoming match to secure qualification for the tournament in Cote d’Ivoire.
The game against the CAR is on Thursday, September 7 in Kumasi. Kickoff is 4.00 pm Ghana time.
