Coach Appiah outlines criteria for player selection

New Black Stars coach, Kwesi Appiah has cited performance and experience as the key criteria for the selection of players.

Whilst the Black Stars door is open to every Ghanaian player, Appiah said only active players will gain his attention to don the national colours.


“The performance of the player and his experience will be key for selection. Also, the player must be active.”


The 51-year old soft-spoken trainer said he has been monitoring the performance of players both home and abroad to acquaint himself with their form.


“I have been monitoring the local league and our players abroad. I have visited almost every league center locally and will call up players who fit into my tactics.”


Even before he gets to work, Appiah claims he has penciled down 30-players he is considering ahead of his first major assignment.


“I want to have three players for each position. In that case, you cannot rely on one player. Also, the choice of the selected player will be taken in consultation with the technical team.”

On his philosophy, Appiah stated his preference for “defending as a team and attacking as a team” style of play.


He admits that he has braced himself with the challenge and pressure that comes with handling the national team ‘A’.


“It is the first time in a long time that a Ghanaian has been appointed. Normally, it comes with some form of pressure. I’m prepared for the pressure and there is nothing to be afraid of.


Appiah is the eighth local man to assume the technical reigns in the history of the Black Stars.


His first assignment will be against Lesotho in the qualifier for Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 1 at the Accra Sports Stadium.**