South Africa legend Bartlett expects Ghana youngsters to shine

Published on: 16 January 2013

Former South Africa striker Shaun Bartlett believes the absence of big name stars in the Ghana team side will afford young players the chance to shine at the 2013 AFCON.

The four African champions are missing stars;  Kevin-Prince Boateng, Andre Ayew, Sulley Muntari, John Mensah and Michael Essien as they seek to end their 31-year-old trophy draught.

But Shaun Bartlett, who lifted the Nations Cup trophy on home soil with the Bafana Bafana in 1996, believes the absence of the renowned stars will offer chance to youngsters to shine.

“More and more star players are not even coming to the AFCON, so the event is becoming more and more about discovering rough diamonds,” Bartlett said.

“This could mean that Ghana’s defence could see a John Boye or Isaac Vorsah come off really well and make a big name for themselves.

“Even with Michael Essien not there I think they have enough players that can fill the void.

The former Charlton Athletics striker however tips Juventus star Kwadwo Asamoah to excel.

“I think the experience of Kwadwo Asamoah having moved to Juventus since the previous Nations Cup means we could expect more from him in attacking midfield.”

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