Appiah gives assessment of Grant after Egypt defeat

Former Ghana captain Stephen Appiah is unhappy with Avram Grant's tactical approach to the 2-0 away reversal to Egypt on Sunday.

The Black Stars conceded a goal in each half in the matchday two encounter of the 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifiers at the Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria, Mohamed Salah and Abdallah El-Said the proud scorers.

Appiah, who captained Ghana at the 2006 and 2010 World Cup tournaments, is particularly disturbed by Grant's substitution of Atletico Madrid star Thomas Teye Partey in the 73rd minute.

“I was amazed when Partey was substituted from the game because he was our danger man on the day," Appiah told Gh One TV.

"Anytime he had the ball, he moved swiftly and his direct runs caused the Egyptians a lot of problem but I think only the coach can explain the reason why he substituted him.

“People are questioning the mentality of the players but I don’t think it’s only about them; it’s about the coach’s as well.

"Before commencement of the match, everyone was talking about Mohamed Salah, Ramadan Sohbi and Abdallah Said.

"And indeed, they made the difference in the team, [and that] was a full testament of their coach’s tactical plan.”

Ghana sit second from bottom with just a point after matchday two following an earlier draw with Uganda in October.

Egypt occupy the first position with six points, while second-placed Uganda boast of four points.

To stand any chance of qualifying for their fourth successive World Cup, the Black Stars must win their remaining four games and hope that both Egypt and Uganda drop points along the line.