Essien dropped from Ghana's starting line-up to face Zambia, Ayew starts

Published on: 06 September 2013

Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah excluded Chelsea star Michael Essien from his starting line-up to face Zambia on Friday in a decisive 2014 World Cup qualifier in Kumasi.

But Marseille player Andre Ayew, who is also a returnee to the Black Stars, was named in the starting line-up dominated by players who have excelled so far in the qualifiers.

Coach Appiah deployed a two-man attack to face the Chipolopolo with captain Asamoah Gyan and enterprising youngster Majeed Waris leading the attack.

The ferocious midfield trio of Ayew, Kwadwo Asamoah and Mubarak Wakaso will be used to unlock the Zambian attack and create chances for the strikers.

Daniel Opare takes the place of Samuel Inkoom in the right-back starting line-up, Harrision Afful plays on the left while but goalkeeper Fatau Dauda will retain his place in the post.

The effective central defensive pair of John Boye and Jonathan Mensah will be at the heart of the defence with workaholic Rabiu Mohammed providing the cover for the defenders.

Starting line-up: Fatau Dauda, Daniel Opare, Harrison Afful, John Boye, Jonathan Mensah, Rabiu Mohammed, Andre Ayew, Kwadwo Asamoah, Abdul Majeed Waris, Asamoah Gyan, Mubarak Wakaso.

What do you think of Ghana's starting line-up? Do you think Essien should have started? Do you think players started can defeat Zambia?

Make your views known in the box below. 

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