Ghanaian football legend Charles Taylor has shared his thoughts on the inclusion of local players in the upcoming Black Stars squad ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In an exclusive interview on Happy FM’s Wamputu Sport with Sintim-Koree Chaskele, Taylor expressed concern about the attitude of some local players, emphasizing that their focus on money and social media stardom may hinder their impact on the national team.
“In the last seven years, although few local players have received Black Stars call-ups, we do not see their impact because they are not given opportunities. A key problem of many local players is when they are called, they are focused on money, taking pictures with the other senior players and announcing on social media that they were also present, which shouldn’t be their main goal”.
Taylor acknowledged the improvement in the local league, stating that it continues to evolve positively. However, he stressed the need for a change in mindset among local players aspiring to join the Black Stars. The football legend urged them to prioritize the opportunity to represent the national team over financial gains and social media recognition.
As anticipation builds for the AFCON 2023, several notable local players have been recommended for inclusion in the Black Stars squad.
Names such as Jonathan Sowah, Nurudeen Abdulai, Felix Kyei (Medeama), Augustine Okrah (Bechem United), Isaac Mintah (Aduana Stars), Richmond Lamptey (Asante Kotoko), John Antwi (Dreams FC), and Manaf Umar – Nsoatreman have been circulating among fans and pundits.
However, Black Stars coach Chris Hughton is yet to unveil his 55-man provisional squad for the tournament. The AFCON 2023, scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11, 2024, in Ivory Coast, will feature 24 teams competing for the prestigious continental title.
In the group stage, the Black Stars of Ghana are set to face formidable opponents, including record champions Egypt, Mozambique, and Cape Verde. They will be hoping to punch above their weight to stay in the competition. The team exited at the group stage in the previous tournament.
The tournament, consisting of 52 matches, will be hosted in five cities: Abidjan, Yamoussoukro, Bouaké, San-Pedro, and Korhogo.