Local players receive strong backing from Stephen Appiah

Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has voiced his support for including more local-based players in Ghana’s national football team, stressing that there is untapped talent in the Ghana Premier League deserving of international recognition.

Recently, players from the domestic league have found it challenging to secure spots in the senior national team. Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Frederick Asare, has been the only local-based player called up in recent selections. During the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), just two players from the local league were included in the squad, but neither took part in the tournament.

Addressing this issue, Appiah, who captained Ghana to their first World Cup appearance in 2006, emphasized the importance of creating competition within the Black Stars by giving local players opportunities to showcase their talent. He recalled the 2006 World Cup, citing the rise of local players such as Shilla Illiasu, who was then with Kotoko, and Habib Mohammed, who both impressed on the global stage.

“We need to give local players the chance to play for the national team,” Appiah said during a meeting with Parliament’s Select Committee on Sports. “Back in our time, there was real competition within the team. Players had to perform well because others were pushing them. Today, that competition is missing, and some players feel too comfortable, knowing they’ll play regardless of their performance.”

Appiah also lamented the state of the local league, which has led to talented players leaving Ghana for countries like Tanzania and Sudan in search of better financial prospects. “It’s unfortunate that our players are leaving for places like Tanzania and Sudan. We should be drawing players here, not losing them,” he noted.

He highlighted the example of a Ghanaian player who was the standout performer for Niger during a recent match and mentioned the former Ghana Premier League goal king, now representing Togo, as further proof of missed opportunities.

Ghana’s national team will face Sudan on October 11, 2024, as they look to end their winless streak dating back to June 10. Appiah’s call for change comes at a time when many are questioning the balance of the team and its ability to compete at the highest levels.