Black Stars deputy skipper, Andre "Dede" Ayew, has disclosed that his decision to fund the airfares of some of his teammates for their 2017 AFCON qualifier against Rwanda on September 3 is not meant to disrespect the Minister of Youth and Sports, Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuije.
Ayew decided to purchase business class tickets for members of Avram Grant's 23-man squad who were unable to afford the cost of making the trip to Accra at short notice.
His move was in response to Mr Vanderpuije stating that his outfit would rather have locally-based players representing the country because the Sports Ministry is cash-strapped.
The injured West Ham player said his main motive was the patriotism and love he has for his nation rather than a show of disrespect.
“This act is not to dishonour the minister or anyone, but rather, to show our desire and love to wear the national colours and do battle for Ghana,” he told Sportscrusader in an interview.
The player has also decided to join the team for their preparations even though he is still currently injured.