Black Stars coach Charles Akonnor is disappointed with Thomas Partey’s absence from upcoming World Cup qualifiers but is confident the available players can feel the void.
Partey’s unavailability is due to an ankle injury he suffered during pre-season and has kept him out of action for a month.
Akonnor included the Arsenal midfielder in his squad for the games against Ethiopia and South Africa hoping that he would be fit to play.
But was informed by Arsenal that they expect Partey to start playing after the international break, thereby ruling the 28-year-old out of the qualifiers.
Obviously, Partey is one of Ghana’s best players and his absence is a blow to the Black Stars in their bid to win both games and take control of the qualifying group.
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However, Akonnor remains optimistic. He said: “We’ve been in touch with Partey, and his injury doesn’t look too good for us.”
“However we have guys who can step into his position and do well.”
Ghana play Ethiopia in Cape Coast on September 3 and three days later meet South Africa in Johannesburg.
