Former Ghanaian star Derek Boateng, who represented his country at two FIFA World Cups, urges that England-born Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah should not be chosen for Ghana’s 2026 World Cup squad.
Boateng believes these two are not the answer for the Black Stars and doubts they would make a difference at the World Cup, even as many urge the coach to give them a chance.
Yet Boateng, once a stalwart defensive midfielder, insists the Black Stars should not become a fallback for players overlooked by England or other European teams, arguing they bring little to the table.
“I truly question whether they will make any real impact soon. We must tread carefully. The Black Stars should not be a proving ground for those unable to break into European squads”.
“Football is not just about talent on paper; it’s about the heart. When we were playing, we gave everything for the jersey. You can’t wait until you are 24 or 25, after you’ve been rejected elsewhere, and then decide you are Ghanaian, Derek told Sporty FM.
He added: “Bringing them in now can even destroy the team chemistry because the players who fought through the qualifiers will feel disrespected”.
With a football career spanning over 16 years, Derek Boateng played 47 times for the Black Stars and was part of the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cup squads.
