Appiah: Dauda still first-choice keeper

Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah has stressed that Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Fatau Dauda remains his first-choice shot-stopper, despite dropping him from the Black Stars friendly against Montenegro.

The former Ashantigold glovesman has only made two competitive appearances with the Sea Robbers since joining them last summer. He failed to make the cut for the Podgorica test game on March 5, but the FA insists it has nothing to do with his club’s status.

Speaking before leaving to Montenegro, coach Appiah said the 28-year-old is his favourite to man the post ahead of Brazil 2014.

“Fatau Dauda still remains my first-choice goalkeeper despite his present predicaments at his club,” Appiah told Accra-based Asempa FM. “I have given the two [Stephen and Kwarasey] Adams the opportunity to prove themselves countless times and he knows what they are capable of doing but my doors are still not closed to any player.”

“I am still monitoring the likes of Daniel Agyei, Razak Braimah and some other goalkeepers who in one way or the other can help push the dream of the team or the nation forward.”

Aduana goalkeeper Stephen Adams and Kwarasey were the only two keepers who made the trip to Montenegro.