Ghana calls up Accam, ruins Chicago Fire's Sunday

I never had a problem with Ghana. Actually, I guess I did in 2010, but I was ready to move on. Let bygones be bygones. But I am afraid to say that just cannot happen.

After watching David Accam play a whopping 45 minutes of soccer in the last month-plus, the powers-that-be at the Ghanian national team decided they wanted to bring the recovering winger along for a couple friendlies. Not cool, Ghana, not cool. Sunday's game against Philadelphia was supposed to be Accam's grand entrance. After flashing plenty of promise in a second-half appearance in San Jose, Accam was going to electrify the home supporters with his speed and lead the Fire to their first victory with what I am sure was going to be a golazo. But that has all been put on hold.

Accam will join his national team this week for a friendly against Senegal on Friday and another against Mali on Tuesday. Accam was also with the national team during the African Cup of Nations where he played a whole two minutes, subbing on in the 88th minute during a group stage game against Senegal, proving once again the Black Stars have black hearts.

If the national team feels it is necessary to bring Accam in, they better play him some actual minutes and let him round into game shape, However, if he re-aggravates his injury or picks up a new injury, I am going to blame it on Ghana. I don't care if it is because of a reckless tackle, it will be Ghana's fault in my eyes. Black Stars, please just take good care of him and return him to Chicago in top form.

Men in Red ink Bryce

In less frustrating news, the Fire officially signed Kingsley Bryce, bringing the roster two short of the 28-man limit. It's a welcomed move as the defender/midfielder looked promising during preseason and often played larger than his 6-foot, 185-pound frame would suggest. Bryce was a second-round pick of the Fire this past year after scoring 23 goals and registering 12 assists in 79 matches at Saint Louis University.

He was an All Atlantic-10 second team selection during his collegiate years.

I expect Kingsley could be headed to St. Louis FC to get some minutes, but he may stay with the first team for a while as Yallop continues to tinker with lineups and deal with international call-ups and injuries. If Yallop is set on playing Joevin Jones upfield, I could see Kinglsey getting some minutes at either right back or left back. At least he is an intriguing prospect on a team that could use a shot of some hope and energy after a listless start.