Partey shocked over rumours surrounding Ayew brothers

Thomas Partey is shocked over claims that West Ham United Star Andre Ayew and his brother Jordan of Swansea City are disruptive figures in the Ghana national team.

Atletico Madrid midfielder says the two sons of the Ghana legend Abedi Pele can help the Black Stars as they rebuild to conquer Africa at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

Ghana coach Appiah made significant changes in light of Ghana's troubled Nations Cup campaign, dropping national team regulars such as Wakaso Mubarak, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu and Razak Brimah for the double-header against Congo.

He also axed the Ayew brothers - Jordan and Andre - for the showdown with Uganda, a situation which also contributed to Ghana's struggles, according to Partey.

"It was difficult for the squad to deal with the constant speculation surrounding the Ayew brothers" he added.

"They [Jordan and Andre] are good players who have been involved in the national side for a long time.

"I think along with the newer players, we can build a good team going forward."

With Ghana's run of three consecutive World Cup appearances ending, Appiah's attention will now turn to the 2019 Nations Cup qualifying campaign.

The Black Stars have been pitted alongside Sierre Leone, Kenya and Ethiopia in the race to reach Cameroon, and began the qualifying programme in some style with a 5-0 rout of the Walias in Kumasi in June.