Ghana assistant coach, Didi Dramani, has acknowledged the absence of Thomas Partey and Tariq Lamptey, emphasizing the need for available players to gain crucial playtime ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. The tournament commences from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
“Of course, Partey and Lamptey are category A players any coach would love to have,” Dramani admitted. “If they could join us even five days before the tournament, we’d be delighted. But unfortunately, that’s not the case. Players need match fitness before a call-up.”
Thomas Partey and Tariq Lamptey, both nursing injuries, were included in Ghana’s initial 50-man provisional squad but missed the final cut due to their fitness concerns. Their absence leaves a void in the Black Stars’ midfield and defense, but Didi Dramani is confident in the remaining squad
Ghana embarks on its AFCON journey on January 13 against Cape Verde, followed by crucial encounters with Egypt and Mozambique
Although the absence of Partey and Lamptey is a setback, Ghana’s squad still boasts talented players capable of achieving success. Dramani’s message serves as a stark reminder that match fitness and timely availability are pivotal factors for any team aspiring to glory in such a prestigious tournament