The build-up to the highly anticipated Unity Cup clash between Nigeria and Ghana has taken an unexpected turn, as some of Ghana’s most recognisable stars will play no part in the showdown at the Gtech Community Stadium in London, Footynaija.com reports.
In an official statement released by the Ghana Football Association (GFA), the absence of Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey was confirmed.
According to the GFA, Ghana boss Otto Addo has decided to grant the player a break from international duties. The decision, as stated by the federation, was made in agreement with the technical team following internal discussions.
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The Arsenal midfielder is not the only big name missing from the Black Stars squad. The GFA also listed a number of players who have been ruled out due to various reasons ranging from minor injuries to club commitments.
Some of those unavailable include Mohammed Kudus, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Antoine Semenyo, Inaki Williams, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, and Alexander Djiku.
Injuries have heavily hit the Ghana camp, with several first-team regulars confirmed to be nursing knocks. Others, such as Joseph Paintsil and Osman Bukari, are still active in the MLS season and were therefore not released.
Ghana’s statement also revealed that some players were not released by their clubs due to ongoing domestic competitions. One such example is Jonas Adjetey, who has a Swiss Cup final to prepare for with FC Basel on June 1.
Despite these absences, Nigeria are not expected to take their West African rivals lightly. The Super Eagles are coming into the Unity Cup full of momentum under new head coach Eric Chelle.
The clash against Ghana will be the Super Eagles’ first of two games in the Unity Cup. After facing Ghana on Wednesday, May 28, they will take on the winner of the Jamaica vs Trinidad and Tobago match.
