Gyan ends international retirement

Black Stars striker Asamoah Gyan has announced his decision to return to the national team after a five-month absence.

The UAE-based striker took a temporary break from international football in February after the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Al Ain attacker sent a letter to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) reversing the decision.

Gyan says he is available for selection for the Black Stars with immediate effect.

“Following my letter on 16th February 2012,I wish to inform you that I am now ready to be selected for my National Team of Ghana,” Gyan said in the letter to the GFA.

“The past five months have given me an opportunity to reflect.

“My friends, family and the “football family of Ghana” have been incredibly supportive, and it is with their help that I have reached the decision to return to international duty.

“I am fully committed and focused on our clear goals ahead as a nation on the quest for qualification for both AFCON 2013 and the World Cup in 2014.”

Meanwhile, GFA boss Kwesi Nyantakyi has hailed Gyan for rescinding his decision and has called for support for players in difficult times.

“The GFA wants to thank Asamoah Gyan for taking this decision and this shows once again that he is fully committed to his country,” Nyantakyi said.

“We thank his family and friends who also helped to encourage him in his difficult times.

“I want to use this opportunity to plead with our fans to support our players in their difficult times rather than condemning them.

“These players have brought good times for the country in the past and when things go wrong let’s encourage them to bring out the best in them.”