Ghana’s newly recruited talent Derrick Jones has proclaimed his full belief that the Black Stars possess the quality to conquer Africa at the upcoming Cup of Nations, despite still gelling under coach Chris Hughton.
Jones, who recently inked for MLS champions Columbus Crew after starring for Charlotte FC, finds himself enthused by Ghana’s AFCON prospects after linking up with his ancestral homeland late last year. The 25-year old midfielder qualifies through parents born in Ghana.
Although Jones will depart Ghana in January to commence pre-season preparations with Columbus, he insists the talent at Hughton’s disposal can defy expectations in Ivory Coast.
“Honestly, in this team I think we have a lot of good talent,” Jones told local media outlet Citi Sports during Ghana’s training camp.
“They’re actually a very good team. I have very high hopes for them at the next AFCON. I think the players we have or don’t have called up, we still have a good team.”
Ghana heads into AFCON 2023 keen to rekindle the golden generations of the past after failing to reach the knockouts four years ago. Drawn into Group B with football giants Egypt, Cape Verde and Mozambique this time around, the pressure is on to progress.
But Jones’ positivity stems from witnessing the Black Stars talent up close. With the injection of bright young talents alongside experienced, established stars, Jones believes Ghana has the ammunition to target a fifth Continental crown.
As he gears up for a maiden MLS title defence, Jones parts ways urging his ancestral nation towards African glory in his absence.
