Black Stars squad will be named in mid December

Players hoping for an appearance at the 2013 African Cup of Nations will learn their fate in a matter of days with the technical team of the Black Stars set to name their 23-man squad in mid-December.

A supreme source told the GNA Sports that the technical team, led by Coach Kwesi Appiah has signaled its intent to name the final squad in mid-December ahead of the Stars camping in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates early January.

The source said the normal practice of naming a 25-man provisional squad has been scrapped as the technical team seeks to eliminate the difficulty that comes with dropping two players after only four days of camping.

“Calling up 25 players has often been the norm but this time, there is a decision to stick to the 23 that will make it to the tournament.

“With the camping starting on January 5, and CAF deadline for submission of squad lists fixed for four days later, it is important to save the two players that will be dropped a further emotional stress since they will be in camp for only four days or less,” said the source.

The source revealed that the squad could see a blend of local and foreign players as Coach Appiah look to give meaning to his believe in players in the domestic league.

Ghana hopes to end a three decade wait for a fifth nation’s cup glory at the South Africa competition.

The Stars are housed in Group B alongside DR Congo, Mali and Niger at the group phase.

Ghana placed fourth at the last championship held in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.