AFCON 2015: Ghana Boosted by Gyan Return Ahead of Algeria Clash
BBC Sport – Africa
22 January 2015
Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan is set to make his return for the Black Stars in their crucial Group C encounter against Algeria on Friday at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Al Ain striker missed Ghana’s opening match against Senegal, a 2-1 defeat, after suffering from a bout of malaria. His absence was keenly felt as the Black Stars struggled in front of goal despite taking the lead through a penalty.
But there is renewed optimism in the Ghanaian camp after the 29-year-old returned to full training on Wednesday. Gyan completed the session with his teammates and appeared to be in excellent condition ahead of what is effectively a must-win game for the four-time African champions.
Speaking to Algerian outlet Le Buteur, Gyan said he was eager to rejoin the squad on the pitch. “Rest assured, I feel good. I’ve had the necessary medical tests and I’ve recovered well. There’s no reason why I shouldn’t play this match,” he confirmed.
Gyan, Ghana’s all-time leading scorer, brings not just goal-scoring ability but leadership to a side under pressure. A second straight defeat would seriously damage Ghana’s hopes of progressing from what many consider the tournament’s ‘group of death’.
Opponents Algeria, who beat South Africa 3-1 in their opener, top the group and will be looking to secure early qualification with another victory. The return of Gyan adds a new dimension to the match, which is expected to be one of the highlights of the group stage.
Ghana coach Avram Grant has yet to confirm whether Gyan will start or come off the bench, but his availability alone is a major boost for a side desperate to bounce back.
