2022 World Cup qualifiers: Black Stars coach Akonnor names provisional 30-man squad for September ties

Black Stars head coach, C.K. Akonnor, has announced a 30-man provisional squad for next month’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying ties against Ethiopia and South Africa.

Announcing the squad on Friday, Akonnor gave debut call ups for four youngsters that include former Ghana U20 goalie Manaf Nurudeen, Austria-based Kelvin Yeboah and Hearts of Oak duo midfielder Daniel Afriyie Barnieh and goalkeeper, Richard Attah.

Dreams FC’s Baffour Philimon, Abdul Ismael Ganiyu of Asante Kotoko and Division One League sensation Abdul Isahaku Fatawu join the Hearts duo to make up 5 local-based players invited by the head coach.

The team also has regulars like skipper Andre Ayew, Crystal Palace striker Jordan and Mubarak Wakaso included alongside Thomas Partey who is currently nursing an ankle injury with doubt of making a return for two fixtures.

There is also the return of Columbus Crew defender, Jonathan Mensah, and Anderlecht midfielder, Majeed Ashimeru into the squad.

The senior national team of Ghana is in Group G of the World Cup qualifiers together with Ethiopia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Here is the full provisional Black Stars squad: