By: Nana Kwame Bediako
Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has expressed his thoughts on the controversial exclusion of Andre Ayew from Coach Otto Addo’s squad. Appiah strongly believes that Ayew, affectionately known as Dede, still has much to offer to the national team. His comments have sparked debate among fans and pundits, who are now re-evaluating the criteria used for player selection in the Black Stars.
Andre Ayew, who has been sidelined for the Black Stars’ two crucial qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic, is at the centre of this discussion. Coach Otto Addo’s decision to leave Ayew out has raised eyebrows, given Ayew’s extensive experience and contributions to the team over the years. Appiah’s remarks have added fuel to the ongoing conversation, suggesting that Ayew’s exclusion might be more about his age than his current form and capabilities.
Appiah drew comparisons to other seasoned players who have continued to excel well into their late 30s and early 40s. He mentioned Max Gradel of the Ivory Coast, who, at 37, still made a significant impact in the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Appiah argued that age should not be the sole determining factor when assessing a player’s potential contributions to the team. He emphasised that performance and fitness are more critical indicators of a player’s readiness and value.
The former captain also referenced football legends like Ryan Giggs, who played competitively until the age of 41, often outperforming younger teammates. Appiah’s comments suggest that the Black Stars might benefit from re-evaluating their approach to player selection, particularly when it comes to experienced players like Ayew. This perspective challenges the conventional wisdom that younger players are always preferable, highlighting the importance of experience and tactical understanding.
