Debutant Massawudu Alhassan ready for Black Stars challenge

Italy-based teenager Massawudu Alhassan has told GHANAsoccernet.com he will make the most of his surprise Black Stars debut call-up.

The 18-year-old Genoa player has been spotted by head coach Goran Stevanovic as a potential to solve the problematic left-back position of the team. He has been named in the Serb's 22-man squad for the 2012 vital Nations Cup qualifier against 8 October and a friendly against Nigeria three days Ghana have struggled to find a permanent left-full back since Habib Mohammed faded after the 2006 World Cup finals in Germany.

Currently, Daniel Opare has been deployed a make-shift player for the position. He put up a poor display at the 2011 African Youth Championship in South Africa but was rejuvenated in the All Africa Games second leg final round qualifier against Nigeria.

"I must say I was surprised to receive news about my call-up because I wasn't expecting it to be that fast," Alhassan exclusively told GHANAsoccernet.com "I have been dreaming about the Black Stars after the All Africa Games. This is a chance in a million and I have to be perfect to remain in the team." "I'm a natural left-footed player but I won't say I am the saviour to the national team problems," he added.

Alhassan moved to Italy from lower division side Prampram Mighty Royals where he signed for then Serie B side Rimini.

He left after one season to join Genoa, where he is a senior team player but yet to make his Serie A debut.

"I have been training with the senior side and that has boosted my confidence. If I'm not called for camping, I play with the reserve side to stay fit." Alhassan featured in Wednesday night 1-1 draw with Fiorentina in the reserve league.