Avram Grant Defends Jordan Ayew Ahead of Semi-Final Clash
With Asamoah Gyan’s participation in doubt, Jordan Ayew is likely to lead the line for Ghana in their 2015 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against host nation Equatorial Guinea this Thursday. But the Lorient striker has faced criticism from sections of the Ghanaian media and fans throughout the tournament.
In response, Black Stars coach Avram Grant came to his player’s defense in a press conference:
“You can’t stop people from talking. They were criticizing Kwesi Appiah even before he made his debut, they were criticizing John Boye who is now recovered and fit. People can talk about the mistakes players make, but they must respect these players because they give everything for the national team.”
Grant went further, reinforcing his belief in the 23-year-old forward:
“Jordan Ayew is a very good player and I am sure he will give a lot to the national team in the future.”
With Gyan Asamoah still recovering, Jordan Ayew is expected to start in tonight’s high-stakes semi-final as Ghana seeks a return to the AFCON final for the first time since 2010.