2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers: It was purely precautionary measure - Akonnor speaks on why local players were invited to Black Stars camp

Published on: 18 March 2021

Ghana coach, CK Akonnor beleives it was the best decision taken to invite local players for the upcoming qualifiers.

A total number of 32 players were invited to the camp of the Black Stars for preparation.

With the Covid-19 impact still around, European clubs are reluctant to release their players for international duties.

China-based duo Mubarak Wakaso and Emmanuel Boateng are the only foreign-based players on the team.

According to the 47-year-old, it was purely a precautionary measure to ensure the team get their preparation done on time.

"That was purely a precautionary measure at first," explained Akonnor in an interview with DW TV.

"I was able to take a hard look at the best guys here from the league here in a two-week training camp.

"This was also an important thing to do as we look towards the future with a view of bringing younger players into the national team," he added.

It is unknown if Akonnor will still invite European players for the qualifiers.

Ghana are currently in camp for the upcoming 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against South Africa and Sao Tome and Principe on March 25 and 28 respectively.

The Black Stars need just a point to seal their qualification for the tournament that will be hosted on Cameroon.

Comments