Black Stars ‘B’ head coach Annor Walker has explained why he rejected Kumasi Asante Kotoko captain Abdul Ismail Ganiyu from the 35-man squad for the CHAN 2022 tournament.
Having played for the Ghana U-23 in 2016, the 25-year-old defender earned his first Black Stars call-up by head coach, C. K. Akonnor, for Ghana’s final two 2021 African Cup of Nations qualifiers against South Africa and São Tomé and Príncipe. On 25 March 2021, he made his debut for the Black Stars, starting in the AFCON qualifiers against South Africa which ended in a 1–1 draw.
However, Ganiyu is regarded as one of the best defenders in the local league who would always stand out for national team call-up.
The dependable defender has not been consistent on the pitch for the awaiting Ghana Premier League winners after the injury he sustained during a game against Karela United on week 22.
After the list of the Local Black Stars was announced many fans of the Porcupines are throwing in questions about why Ganiyu couldn’t make the provisional squad but the gaffer has explained to Ghanasportspage.com why the player was snubbed.
“I give a call-up according to performances. When you talk of Ganiyu he is coming from injury and of late his performance is not good with Kotoko for now.”
“Maybe until he gets well and picks his form I don’t have a problem.” He told Ghanasportspage.com
Abdul Ganiyu has made 21 appearances for Asante Kotoko with a goal to his credit, this season so far.
