Black Stars boss Otto Addo has kept fans guessing on whether Derrick Kohn or Alexander Djiku will feature in Ghana’s crunch World Cup qualifier against Mali on matchday eight.
Kohn missed the 1-1 draw with Chad after FIFA clearance failed to come through in time, while Djiku sat out entirely — but Addo refused to confirm if either will be feature on Monday night in Accra.
“So, yeah, we had a lot of difficulties in Chad. One was also Derek. We didn’t get the FIFA approval. Up to now, we didn’t get it. I’m hoping it will come tomorrow morning. That’s the status quo,” Addo explained.
The coach stressed selection is based on quality, not whether players are local or foreign-born.
“We are always open for any kind of players of Ghanaian descent. It’s not about local players; it’s not about diaspora players. It’s about quality. At the end, I have to choose.”
When pressed for an update on Djiku’s fitness, Addo was careful not to tip his hand as he stood firm: “I will never make statements about who will play or who will not. I don’t want Mali to know. It’s always good to surprise the opponent.”
Ghana lead Group I with 15 points, but Comoros and Mali are closing in. Monday’s clash in Accra could prove decisive — and Addo is keeping his cards close to his chest.
By: Pascal Amoah