Sports minister advises Grant on player selection against Egypt

Ghana's youth and sports minister, Hon. Nii Lante Vanderpuye has advised Black Stars coach Avram Grant to hand midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu and striker Majeed Waris a starting role in the 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Egypt in Alexandria on Sunday.

Ghana failed to defeat Uganda at home last month in the opening group game, with Grant benching the duo and opting for Afriyie Acquah and Asamoah Gyan in midfield and attack respectively.

However, with Acquah still nursing a minor injury and Gyan being ruled out of the game due to a knee injury, the minister has given his solutions.

“Considering the style of play of the Egyptians, we need players like Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu and Mubarak Wakaso to start. They can send in long shots,” Vanderpuye told Asempa FM.

“Andre Ayew and Majeed Waris were not part of the team that faced Uganda but they can torment the defenders of the Egypt, considering their slow build-up from the back when given the chance. Waris can replace Gyan who is ruled out.

“Our defenders should keep their heads cool. They should refrain from playing square passes at the back because the Egyptians will come after us with their speed, especially in the first 20 minutes of the game,” he added.

Asked if he would be in attendance at the Borg El-Arab Stadium in Alexandria, the minister said his presence would not be necessary.

“I will not be in Egypt. I don’t believe my presence is needed. It will be a waste of money considering the financial burdens that confront the ministry.

“And as such, there would not be any official duties in Egypt. It’s better for me to stay in Ghana so that we cut down expenditure and use it for something else.

He added: “As I am talking, the national Beach Soccer team are seeking funds for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, so I would give that money to them,” he added.

The Black Stars arrived in Alexandria on Friday from their camping base in Dubai and will continue their preparations on Saturday.