Ghanaian coach Joseph (JE) Emmanuel Sarpong has expressed displeasure over the low representation of local players in the Black Stars squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers under head coach Carlos Queiroz.

Head coach Queiroz named Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who has seemingly cemented his place in the team, but did not include any other local players in the squad.

Following the withdrawals of some key players, most of the players called up as replacements ply their trade in foreign leagues, further generating concerns.

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Addressing the issue, coach JE Sarpong questioned Carlos Queiroz’s decision to sideline local players, arguing that it does not augur well for the promotion of indigenous talent.

He argued that the same players who are overlooked while playing in the local league are often called up when they move to clubs abroad, describing the situation as worrying and calling for equal opportunities to be given to local players.

“We don't know whether the local league is good or not because of the absence of the local boys. They say the local boys are not good enough to play in the Black Stars, but it is the same boys who travel and, after one or two years, suddenly get invited to the national team,” he told Graphic Sports.

SB/MA

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