‘We need clarity and honesty’ – Carlos Queiroz challenges Ghana FA over Black Stars selection

Carlos Queiroz has called for greater honesty in player selection and communication as Ghana prepare to face Gambia in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Tuesday.

The Black Stars are under pressure after losing 2-0 to Côte d’Ivoire in their opening Group C match in Bouaké, leaving them bottom of the group ahead of the Accra Sports Stadium encounter.

Queiroz, who is dealing with several player absences, said Ghana’s long-term progress will depend on consistency in selection and clear communication between the federation, coaching staff and players.

“We need clarity. We need clarity in the communication with our players. We need honesty in the communication with our players. We need commitment from the federation, from the players. Everybody must be committed to the same goals and the same dreams, and take responsibility at the right time,” he said.

The Portuguese coach stressed that maintaining a consistent group is necessary to build understanding within the national team.

“And if we were able, with my experience working with national teams for years, the only way to be systematic, to take benefits of cumulative work, you have to work with the same players. You cannot change 10 players or nine players every time you call the national team,” Queiroz added.

Ghana will be without Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Kudus, Jordan Ayew and Antoine Semenyo for Tuesday’s fixture, while Gambia enter the match after beating Somalia 2-1 in their opening qualifier.

Queiroz will hope the available players can respond against a Gambian side leading Group C.