Johnson eager for comeback

Ghana defender Sam Johnson is ready to return to the Black Stars.

The 29 year old, who plays for Turkish clubside Fenerbahce, was recalled by national coach Burkhard Ziese.


''Burkhard is like a father to me, so I cannot refuse if he needs my help,'' Johnson told BBC Sport.


During Ziese's first stint in charge of Ghana, the German gave Johnson his international debut in 1991.


But the central defender was dropped on the eve of the 1992 African Nations Cup, after Ziese was forced out of the job.


Johnson has shown impressive form with Fenerbahce this season and said his experience in Europe has made him a much better player.

''I had to learn the hard way and our young players also need to know the pitfalls of international football.''


Johnson insisted he is not bitter at the treatment meted out to him and other European based players previously frozen out of the Black Stars.


''What is important now is to look ahead. All we want is respect.''


The Black Stars assemble in the German city of Frankfurt next week before moving on to Tunisia.


They are scheduled to play against Cameroon, Guinea and hosts Tunisia in a four nation invitational tournament.