Head of the Black Stars medical team, Dr Prince Pambo has opened up on the intense pressure team doctors face when dealing with injured players ahead of crucial matches.

Speaking to Kafui Dey, the sports medicine specialist stressed that while the medical team determines player availability, it does not decide who makes the final squad.

"We don't determine who makes the team, but we determine who is available for the coach to make his selection from," Dr Pambo stated.

The experienced doctor revealed that throughout his career he has had several disagreements with coaches who wanted key players to play despite medical recommendations ruling them out.

"I've had encounters where coaches did not want to agree with you," he said.

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According to Dr Pambo, there have been instances where coaches named injured players on the bench for psychological reasons or even sent them onto the pitch despite warnings that doing so could worsen existing injuries.

"The most difficult decisions are when everybody feels a particular player is the one to save the country, including the coach, and you are the only person who has to say he cannot play," Dr Pambo explained.

The Black Stars doctor emphasised that protecting players' long-term careers remains the priority, even when the pressure to win immediate matches is overwhelming.

PAH/JE