Contrary to what many Ghanaians sense, the Black Stars second-in-command has jumped to the defence of the moonwalk dancer, saying he is committed to his adopted country

Ghana assistant coach Kwesi Appiah does not think Ghanaians have been fair to midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng over his health issues and national team call-ups.

The AC Milan player has come under heavy criticism in the west African country for his inability to honour some Black Stars call-ups due to what many term a “suspicious attitude and injuries”.

The 24-year-old did not make himself available for the African Cup of Nations qualifier against Congo Brazzaville in March. That angered many local fans, especially when he turned up two days later for the historic England friendly. They felt used by the German-born Ghanaian footballer having gained stardom at the 2010 World Cup thanks to a nationality switch to Ghana.

The former Portsmouth player will once again be missing in the Black Stars squad against Nigeria in an August 9 friendly. Although the player has explained his injury situation to the Ghanaian authorities, the local media and fans contend Boateng is being picky with games he wants to play for the country.

However, Appiah has defended the Serie A player and has appealed to Ghanaians to exercise patience with him.

“I think critics of Kevin-Prince Boateng are mixing up the issues,” Appiah told Africa Sports. “He had a knee surgery recently and returned only a couple of weeks ago.”

He said the Black Stars coach Goran Stevanovic is aware of the player’s condition and sanctioned his request to stay out of the west Africa derby to gain full fitness.

“The head coach Stevanovic sincerely believed he had to be given a little time for full recovery before rejoining the team while allowing other new players to justify themselves. I do not think it has to do with the so called unpatriotic attitude of Kevin Boateng.”