Ex-Ghana international Samuel Osei Kuffour says the nation must respect Kevin-Prince Boateng's decision to make himself unavailable for selection.

The AC Milan midfielder last week stepped down from national team duties claiming that he cannot deal with the physical exertions of both club and international commitments.

Kuffour, who in 2002 had to rescind his decision to retire from international football says, Boateng’s decision surprised him but that the "door should always be opened".

Though Boateng has come up for criticisms from a section of fans, Kuffour, speaking to the media ahead of the official launch of his testimonial match on November 23 in Kumasi, says the player's decision must be respected by all as we move on.

“He's his own man and has made a decision and I think everyone must accept and respect that,” Kuffour told a media gathering Tuesday night.

"We all take decisions in our lives, whether good or bad. But I am not the one to condemn him for his decision or force him to play. I respect him and it's his decision."

For Kuffour, the player should not be discounted entirely.

“He is still a Ghanaian, he still holds a Ghanaian passport. Ghana is the only national team he can play for if he decides to come back. We should not close the door to him forever. The door should always be opened.

“The Black Stars will go on. Others have come and gone but Ghana still remains."