Andre accepts Black Stars expectation

Ghana's Andre Ayew recognises that every turn out for the Black Stars comes with a certain degree of expectation but for the attacker, it only motivates him to rise to the occasion.

The Olympique Marseille player has been involved in competition at the senior level since he made his debut in a friendly against Senegal on August 21, 2007.


Ayew, son of former Ghana captain, Abedi Ayew Pele has since grown from a boy into man, featuring in three successive Nations Cup finals and one World Cup.


As Ghana prepares for a crucial final round qualifier against Malawi on Saturday for a place at next year's Africa Cup of Nations, the 22 year-old, who has seen many key battles is aware of the demands of playing for the Black Stars.


"[Pressure] It's normal that for all the years that I have been with the national team, I think it is normal all the fans and the people of Ghana expect a lot from me," Andre said at Ghana's training camp in Kenya.


"I think that, is not pressure but it's rather motivating for me to see that the people believe in me and to see that people want me to help the nation."


For Andre, the utmost priority is getting Ghana to the 2013 African Cup of Nations.

"So, I am going to give my best for the squad, for the team. What is important is not about me personally but is about the squad and how we are going to do to get to the Nations Cup."


Having missed a greater part of the closing stages of last season through a shoulder injury, Andre has gradually warmed himself back into the game and admits that it it was initially tough for him.


"In the beginning of this season, it was a bit difficult for me because I came from injuries and little things and now that I am fully fit, it's much better for me," the attacker said.


"Bit-by-bit, I am getting back to hundred percent and hopefully I can do what I was doing at my club in Malawi."


Ghana lead the tie 2-0 from the first leg and the aggregate winner after the match in in Lilongwe advances to the next year's continental showpiece