World Cup: Black Stars need Nketiah and Odoi to face England – Nii Lante Vanderpuye

Former sports minister, Nii Lante Vanderpuye has called for the inclusion of Callum Hudson‑Odoi and Eddie Nketiah in the Black Stars squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Nottingham Forest winger and Crystal Palace striker have been in the news after it was reported that they are willing to switch nationality from England to Ghana.

This development was met with backlash from some Ghanaian football fans, who rejected the idea, arguing that the players failed to commit when the team needed them most.

Ghana to face Germany in pre-World Cup friendly

However, Nii Lante Vanderpuye holds a different view, insisting that their inclusion would strengthen the Black Stars ahead of the World Cup.

The former Member of Parliament for the Odododiodio constituency argued that because both players have previously represented the Three Lions, their experience would boost Ghana’s attack and improve the team’s chances against England.

“The good thing is that we are going to play against England. It will rather give us a psychological advantage over them. They won’t have that overconfidence."

“Imagine having Jordan [Ayew], [Antoine] Semenyo, Eddie Nketiah and Hudson‑Odoi in attack! It makes us stronger,” he told Onua TV.

The Black Stars have been placed in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama as they fight for a place in the knockout stage.

Ghana will open their Group L campaign on June 17, 2026, against Panama in Toronto before travelling to face England in Boston on June 23.

The team will play their final group match in Philadelphia on June 27.

SB/JE

Mahama promises Alan Kyerematen ‘a very special place’ ahead of AU chair position:

TWI NEWS