Awal Mohammed has received a national team call-up for the Africa Cup of Nations

Maritzburg United say they are not surprised their defender Mohammed Awal made the cut for Ghana’s provisional 2013 Africa Cup of Nations squad because of his excellent performances so far this season.

The defender was included in a Black Stars squad last month, but was not able to arrange a visa in time to travel to Portugal to play against Cape Verde.

But the Ghanaian selectors have given the ex-Asante Kotoko player another chance to stake his claim in the final squad for the continental showdown.

Awal has been a near ever-present at the back for the Team of Choice, where he has put in commanding performances on a weekly basis.

Maritzburg United Commercial Manager Younus Kadodia was thrilled to hear of the call-up.

“Mohamed has been a fantastic signing for us, making one of the centre-back berths his own with some sterling performances,” Kadodia said.

“Its great that his form has been recognised and we wish both him and Delron all the best in their attempts to make the final squad .

“We believe that both of them will add great value to their respective countries and we hope to see them in action next January.”

Ghana, who are in Group B with DR Congo, Niger and Mali, will trim their squad to 23 after camp in Abu Dhabi next month.