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Soccer News of Wednesday, 18 June 2003

Source: BBC

Ansah replies Ghana critics

Question: Why Not Invite Richard Kingston?
Edward Ansah said he will continue his fight to become Ghana's number one goalkeeper despite criticism from the media.

The 40 year-old (50-year-old by some estimates) recently made a return to the Black Stars after a nine-year absence.

But his presence in the side which played in the recent LG Cup in Nigeria and a friendly against Kenya in Accra has caused a stir.

Ansah kept goal during Ghana's 3-1 loss to Nigeria in the LG Cup and in their 3-1 defeat to Kenya last Saturday.

But the goalkeeper who plays for Churchill Brothers Sports Club in India said he can still play at the highest level.

"If I am given the chance to keep post for the Black Stars on Sunday, then I would do it," Ansah said.

"I don't care what people say. Everything depends on the coach and if he says Eddie, you are my number one, I would be glad to do it".

Coach Burkhard Ziese had previously worked with Ansah during his first spell with Ghana in 1991.

He is one of three goalkeepers called up to prepare for decisive Nations Cup qualifying games, starting with a tie against Uganda in Accra.

With Hearts of Oak's Sammy Adjei injured, Ansah has a good chance of manning the post against the Ugandans.

"Football has nothing to do with age. Everything depends on my stamina and I feel strong.

"I wouldn't be here if I thought I was not up to it," Ansah said.

If he plays against Uganda, it will be his first competitive game for Ghana since the 1994 Nation's Cup which Ghana lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast.

Ansah also played for Ghana at the 1992 African Nation's Cup in Senegal.