Asamoah hails Ghana squad for Brazil

Ghana midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah has hailed the Black Stars squad for the World Cup next month insisting that they are capable of excelling at the tournament in Brazil.

Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah released his provisional squad of 26 players on Monday which has drawn widespread praise for the fairness in selection.

Three youngsters Jeffery Schlupp, David Accam and Afriyie Acquah were among the players the coach selected but the squad has some players who played in the previous tournament.

Andre Ayew, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Sulley Muntari and Asamoah Gyan are among some of the key players who played in the previous tournament in South Africa four years ago when they reached the quarter-final.

Asamoah, who plays for Italian side Juventus, is confident that the current squad can improve on the performance of the previous team.

Comparing the 2010 team to the one heading to Brazil, Asamoah, Ghana’s Player of the Year in 2012 and 2013, said the side had a new coach and there were other subtle differences.

“But the core group and principles remain the same. This is extremely important as it has enabled us to grow as a unit,” the Juventus midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah told Reuters.

“In addition, even more Ghanaians are now playing in Europe’s top five leagues – this international experience will serve us in good stead.”

Ghana will start their camping for the tournament on 20 May before travelling to Holland and USA for their pre-competition camping.

The Black Stars will face Portugal, Germany and the USA in the group stage of the competition.