Asamoah Gyan unruffled by reports of captaincy agitation in Black Stars

Published on: 18 July 2013
Asamoah Gyan unruffled by reports of captaincy agitation in Black Stars
Asamoah Gyan handed his captain armband to Sulley Muntari in the game against Sudan played in Ghana

By Ameenu Shardow

Asamoah Gyan has brushed aside reports of a captaincy rift in the Black Stars – insisting he only concentrates on doing his best as skipper of the side.

There have been several reports of some disquiet amongst the Ghana players especially with the senior ones not in absolute support of coach Akwasi Appiah’s decision to make the Al Ain ace captain of the side.

Gyan succeeded John Mensah as the substantive captain of the Black Stars ahead of Ghana’s disappointing campaign at the 2013 Nations Cup in South Africa.

The 27-year-old’s leadership skills has been put to great doubt following percieved formation of factions within the team.

Gyan’s reign so for has been shrouded in controversy with reports suggesting Sulley Muntari in particular demanded to be captain in the recent 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Sudan and Lesotho – reports the AC milan star has denied.

Many feel the former Sunderland hitman’s captaincy is under threat as he is perceived not to be enjoying the absolute goodwill, support and respect his predecessors; John Mensah and Stephen Appiah commanded during their reign.

But Gyan says he is not bothered by these perceptions from ‘outsiders’ – insisting he only focuses on doing his best in his leadership role for the team.

“God’s time is the best and I think this is my time,” he told reporters as his residence on Tuesday.

“I have been in the national team since 2003, I have been under so many coaches and played with different players who know the kind of person I am.

“With my experence I try to do my best as a captain to help the team and I don’t think about what outsiders say.

“That is me, I like to be myself and make sure I concentrate on my job and do the right thing as a captain.”

Ghana looks destined to make a third successive World Cup finals with Asamoah Gyan as captain this time around.

Stephen Appiah led the Black Stars to their two previous appearance but played a more behind the scene role with John Mensah assuming leadership of the team on the field of play at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
Learn more