Black Stars defender Tariq Lamptey faces the likelihood of missing the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after sustaining an injury during his return over the weekend.
Brighton and Hove Albion manager Roberto de Zerbi confirmed on Wednesday that the 23-year-old will be sidelined for an extended period.
Lamptey suffered the injury in Brighton’s match against Nottingham Forest midway through the first 45 minutes.
Speaking in his press conference ahead of the Europa League match against AEK Athens on Thursday, De Zerbi stated that Lamptey, along with Ansu Fati, will be out for a considerable duration. “We have lost Ansu for a long time. Same for Lamptey, they will be out for a long time.”
After just 35 minutes on the field, Lamptey had to be replaced due to discomfort. This setback puts him at risk of missing the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, having already been absent during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Madagascar and Comoros due to injury. He also did not feature in the team during the October international break.
Lamptey's recurring injury problem poses a significant challenge for both the Black Stars and Brighton as the season progresses.
