Black Starlets coach Laryea Kingston has revealed that he personally handpicked each member of the 20-man squad representing Ghana in the 2024 WAFU B U17 Cup of Nations, which will be hosted in Ghana.

Unveiling the final roster before their opening match against Côte d’Ivoire at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, Kingston highlighted the rigorous selection process and his dedication to forming the best team possible.

“I chose every single player in this squad. You know it wasn’t easy. It wasn’t easy at all from day one. From day one I’ve been fighting and fighting, putting my feet down on the ground,” Kingston stated in an interview with Joy Sports.

He elaborated, “Fine, if you recommend a player, I would like to see the player first, and if I feel the player can help the work that we are doing, why not? I’ve fought for this, and trust me, every single player that you see in the squad now is my decision. I chose every player there, but it wasn’t easy, I have to be honest.”

With the team ready for their first match against Ivory Coast and aiming for qualification to the 2025 U17 Africa Cup of Nations, Kingston’s meticulous selection process underscores their determination to succeed. Their journey begins with the opening fixture before facing Benin on Tuesday.

Ghana aims to leverage the competition to secure a return to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament they have not participated in for the past seven years.