Acheampong credits form rise to positional change

Anderlecht winger Frank Acheampong believes a change in playing position has been responsible for his recent exploits with the Belgian giants.

The Ghana international scored twice in a 2-2 stalemate with KV Mechelen in the JupilerPro League on February 5, before opening the scoring in a 3-0 thrashing of Zulte-Waregen a week later.

He followed up with perhaps his most magical football moment, scoring twice in extra-time to send the Purple and White through to the last 16 of the Uefa Europa League over Greek side Olympiacos on February 25.

“I have been working very hard in training and for me, I believe that the technical team saw the potential in me by allowing me play at my rightful position,” Acheampong told GhanaFans.

“When the season started, I was not getting enough games, and the few I got, I was shifted back [to left-back position] because of an injury to a team-mate.

“But now, it’s been a different story and I thank my coach for believing in me.”

The former King Faisal attacker has been on the international wilderness since June last year, but says he’s bidding his time for a return.

“I’m not worried by my Ghana absence at all,” Acheampong added.

“I know it’s just a matter of time and I will be invited again. But as I said, I have no problems with that.

“Let’s wait and see what happens [in the coming games with Mozambique] because those in charge are monitoring and recently, coach Avram Grant came here [to] watch the Ghanaian players. So we’re still keeping hope alive.”

Ghana Grant is expected to name his squad for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header with Mozambique later this month.