The Black Stars’ head coach, Chris Hughton, has stated that he is unconcerned by the public criticism over the decision to include Andre Ayew in the final 2023 Africa Cup of Nations roster.
Hughton has selected the Ghana skipper for the important game despite his lack of a club and absence from competitive football this season.
The former Brighton manager responded to the criticism of his decision to choose the 33-year-old for the 25-man squad by saying that he is unwavering in his decision despite discussions about squad selection being inevitable.
“Growing perception is not something that means too much to my point of view as the head coach,” Hughton said in an interview.
“It’s about the squad that I want and the reason for each player to be in the squad. What is the perception outside? I don’t know. This is not my concern.”
“What I have to do is to pick a squad that is made up of young exciting players and much more experienced players.”
“There will always be, in the general public, a lot of debate about who should be in the squad and who shouldn’t.”
“We are knowledgeable about the amount games that he has played and we also know what he means to the squad. He is out captain; I know what he gives the squad.”
