by Silas Boahene | Dec 20, 2023 | World Cup
Former Black Princesses coach, Robert Sackey, has publicly supported Chris Hughton’s decision to include Andre Ayew in Ghana’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Comoros and Madagascar.
However, Sackey expressed that he wouldn’t have started Ayew in the game against Comoros, preferring to bring him on in the second half to leverage his experience and leadership.
Sackey’s remarks follow criticism faced by Hughton on social media for naming Ayew in the starting lineup, considering the player’s absence from competitive games since leaving Nottingham Forest last season.
In an interview with Asempa FM, Sackey acknowledged that Ayew’s lack of recent game time was a factor. Still, he believed Ayew’s inclusion was necessary due to his leadership qualities and experience.
“Everyone knows that it is now he has signed for a team. He has not been playing for a while. Even if Andre Ayew was going to play, he should come on in the second half,” Sackey explained.
While Sackey wouldn’t have started Ayew, he recognizes that Hughton’s decision to do so was a risky move. “Chris Hughton has put himself on the line by starting Andre Ayew,” he said.
Ghana experienced a 1-0 defeat in Moroni, leaving them with three points after two games in the World Cup qualifiers.
by Silas Boahene | Dec 20, 2023 | Ghana
Former Ghana youth star, Clifford Aboagye, remains steadfast in his decision to join Udinese despite encountering challenges during his time with the Italian Serie A club, following a standout performance in the 2013 U-20 World Cup.
Aboagye, who gained prominence with an outstanding showing in the 2013 U-20 World Cup and earned the Bronze Ball, had committed to Udinese before the tournament, limiting his options thereafter.
During an interview on Linus Siaw Nartey’s YouTube channel, Aboagye clarified, “A lot of people didn’t know; I had signed for Udinese before the U20 World Cup, so I didn’t have any choice. After the World Cup, a lot of clubs came after me, but since I signed for Udinese at a tender age, I needed to join them and see what’s next.”
Despite facing challenges adapting to Italian football, Aboagye expressed no regrets, stating, “The Italian football wasn’t my type of game, so I went to Udinese, and they looked at the best option for me, and they said the Spanish football would be good for me.
“Who wouldn’t sign for Udinese at a very young age? So I had that opportunity and had to take it. I wouldn’t say I regret or made a bad decision joining Udinese; it’s part of the process.”
Since departing Udinese, Aboagye has embarked on a diverse career journey, featuring spells in Spain and Mexico. He has worn the jerseys of clubs like Granada, Atlas, Querétaro, Tijuana, and Puebla, showcasing his resilience and adaptability in different football landscapes.
by Silas Boahene | Dec 20, 2023 | Ghana
Ghanaian midfielder Clifford Aboagye has expressed his sincere desire to receive a call-up to represent the Black Stars in the 2022 World Cup held in Qatar.
Regrettably, the former Black Satellites captain did not find a spot in Otto Addo’s squad for the tournament, where Argentina emerged as champions.
During an interview with Linus Siaw Nartey on YouTube, Aboagye, a standout performer for the Ghana U-20 side in the 2013 World Cup, shared his aspirations of being part of the Black Stars squad for the prestigious global event.
“Yes, I was playing regularly and I was definitely hoping to get a call-up, but I think it wasn’t time. When it’s time, God always has his ways of doing marvelous things, so I still have to focus and wait for my time.”
Despite not making it to the World Cup squad, Aboagye remains optimistic and patient, recognizing the timing of opportunities in football. Currently without a club after concluding his spell with Querétaro in Mexico, the midfielder continues to keep his focus on staying prepared for potential opportunities that lie ahead.
Ghana’s campaign in the 2022 World Cup faced an early exit as the Black Stars were unable to progress from a challenging group that included Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea.
by Silas Boahene | Dec 20, 2023 | Ghana
Black Stars forward Mohammed Kudus has earned a well-deserved spot in the esteemed BBC Premier League Team of the Week, following his stellar performance for West Ham United in their commanding 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers last weekend.
The skillful talent played a pivotal role in the emphatic win, displaying his remarkable skill and goal-scoring prowess on the pitch. Kudus, lasting an impressive 87 minutes, was instrumental in sealing a remarkable 3-0 home triumph against Wolves.
Kudus showcased his brilliance by netting a remarkable double within 10 minutes, propelling his team to victory. His first goal, a powerful strike in the 22nd minute, set the tone for West Ham’s dominance. Kudus then secured his brace in the 32nd minute, capitalizing on assists from the skillful Lucas Paquetá.
The triumph was further adorned by England forward Jarrod Bowen, who capitalized on another assist from Paqueta to score his 10th goal of the season, ultimately sealing the win for David Moyes’ side.
Notably, Kudus’s exceptional performance has earned him the distinction of being the fastest player to score a brace in a Premier League game at the London Stadium.
Since joining West Ham from Dutch giants Ajax in the summer, the former Ajax star has amassed a total of five goals in the Premiership and eight in all competitions.
As Kudus continues to leave an indelible mark for West Ham United, his inclusion in the BBC Premier League Team of the Week underscores his significant influence and contribution to the team’s success in the ongoing season.
by Silas Boahene | Dec 20, 2023 | Ghana
Former Bibiani Goldstars defender, Michael Enu, has reportedly completed his transfer to Ghanaian champions Medeama SC, as per local media sources.
The formal announcement of this significant move is imminent, aligning with Medeama SC’s strategic efforts to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season and their forthcoming campaign in the CAF Champions League.
The 26-year-old right-back, celebrated for his versatility, joins the Mauves and Yellows on a free transfer following his departure from Goldstars, where he showcased his skills during the previous season.
Rumors suggest that Enu has inked a substantial three-year deal, pledging his commitment to Medeama SC until 2027.
With an impressive record of 29 appearances and two goals for the Miners in the last season, Enu is eager to secure more playing time and endeared himself to fans at Akoon Park.
As a former Ashanti Gold defender, his arrival is poised to offer valuable depth to Medeama SC, especially as they navigate the demanding challenges of participating in three major competitions: the Ghana Premier League, the Ghana FA Cup, and the prestigious CAF Champions League.
