Europe-born players must show commitment in AFCON qualifiers before the World Cup – Ibrahim Tanko

Former Ghana assistant coach Ibrahim Tanko has advised Europe-born players to show commitment during the 2023 African Cup of Nations qualifiers before the World Cup.

Chelsea star Callum Hudson-Odoi, Brighton defender Tariq Lamptey, Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah, Southampton defender Mohammed Salisu, Athletic Bilbao brothers Nico Williams and Inaki Williams have been targeted for the Mundial.

Speaking to Koforidua-based Bryt FM, Tanko entreated Europe-born players who wants to go to the World Cup to show commitment and play in the AFCON qualifiers which starts in June before the World Cup.

“Once they are all Ghanaians, they are entitled to play for the national team but it will depend on the coach. If the technical team thinks those players can help, why not?

“Fortunately for us, we have three or four AFCON qualifiers to play before the World Cup, however, players who are ready to switch nationality have to join the team to express their readiness for the World Cup”

“To me, any player who wants to go the World Cup must play in the AFCON qualifiers, they need to show their readiness to the team. I believe the technical will talk to those players”

“Any foreign player who wants to switch nationality must show commitment by playing in the upcoming qualifiers. If you are not ready for the qualifiers it means you are not ready for the World Cup too”

The Black Stars have been drawn in Group H of the World Cup along with European giants Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea.

Ghana are making their 4th appearance at the World Cup after participating in the 2006, 2010 and 2014 editions will open this year’s edition against Portugal on November 24.

They will face South Korea in the second group game on November 28 before taking on Uruguay in the last round four days later.

Ibrahim Tanko is currently the technical director of Ghana Premier League side, Accra Lions.