World Cup 2010: Ghana boosted by defensive duo return ahead of Germany clash

Published on: 21 June 2010

Ghana’s first choice defensive pair of Isaac Vorsah and John Mensah continued to train with the Black Stars on Monday ahead of their Group D finale with Germany on Wednesday.

The news is a massive boosted to the West Africans as the two of their first choice centre-backs have maintained their fragile fitness for the crucial clash

Milovan Rajevac's team picked up a point against Australia on Saturday to leave them top of their pool going into the final round of matches.

And their hopes of making a safe passage into the knockout phase should be aided by the return to fitness of John Mensah and Isaac Vorsah.

The duo were absent for the 1-1 stalemate in Rustenburg after Rajevac opted not to risk their respective injuries to keep them fresh for the Germany clash.

That means the pair are likely to feature in the Black Stars starting XI in a bid to safeguard their teams progression.

"John felt a pain in his calf muscle and with all the injuries he had this season, we did not want to take an unnecessary risk playing him," said Rajevac.

"But he will be fine to play against Germany."

Vorsah, meanwhile, was sidelined by a knee problem and the 56-year-old added: "We rested him because we know the game against Germany is the most important for us."

The encounter at Soccer City will carry added significance for Ghana star Kevin-Prince Boateng, who comes up against the country he opted against playing for despite being born and bred in Germany.

He also represented the Germans at every youth level and brother Jerome will feature against his sibling.

The unique situation led Rajevac to concede he would speak to the 23-year-old prior to the encounter.

Boateng is already held is low regard in Germany after it was his challenge that put captain Michael Ballack out of the tournament following a collision in the FA Cup final.

Either way, his manager said he was delighted with the performances put in by the controversial midfielder player.

The Serbian added: "His contribution to the team has been excellent.

"He has been running a lot and he is a really versatile player. We've gained a lot from having him, he is a very dangerous midfielder.

"Obviously it is going to be difficult for him to play against Germany, so we have to talk to him a lot and prepare him.

"We all know Germany has a good team, but we believe we have a good team as well. We have to keep things tight, stay compact and I'm sure we can win the match."

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