In preparation for the highly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, the Black Stars of Ghana set the wheels in motion with their inaugural training session on Tuesday, January 2.
The vigorous training took place at the renowned Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, serving as the home venue for Ghana Premier League side Nations Football Club.
Head coach Chris Hughton spearheaded the session, overseeing the dedicated efforts of 25 out of the 27 chosen Black Stars players set to represent Ghana in the AFCON. The team, comprising goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, wingers, and strikers, diligently trained under the watchful eye of the coaching staff.
However, the absence of Mohammed Kudus and Inaki Williams from the training camp was noticeable, leaving a couple of vacancies among the squad.
Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Jojo Wollacott and Richard Ofori all goalkeepers were presentat the training, defenders Alidu Seidu, Dennis Odoi, Kingsley Schindler, Gideon Mensah, Hamid Fatawu, Daniel Amartey, Nicholas Opoku, Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu; midfielders Salis Samed, Baba Iddrisu, Majeed Ashmieru, Elisha Owusu, Richmond Lamptey, Andre Ayew; wingers Osman Bukari, Joseph Paintsil, Jordan Ayew, Ernest Nuamah, Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer; and strikers Antoine Semenyo and Jonathan Sowah were also present.
The team’s schedule outlined plans for an intensified training regimen starting the following day, aiming to fine-tune their strategies and cohesion before a pivotal friendly against Namibia scheduled for Monday, January 8.
With high spirits and determination, the Black Stars geared up for the challenge ahead, setting their sights on a successful campaign in the upcoming AFCON tournament.