He Doesn’t Watch EPL – Brighton Boss Questions Ghana Coach’s Decision on Injured Lamptey’s AFCON Inclusion [Watch]

Brighton & Hove Albion’s manager, Roberto De Zerbi, has raised eyebrows over the selection of injured right-back Tariq Lamptey in Ghana’s provisional squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Lamptey, sidelined with injury since late October, has been a notable absence from Brighton’s recent matches.

Expressing bewilderment, De Zerbi stated at a press conference, “The coach of Ghana doesn’t watch the Premier League, otherwise, they would know that Tariq Lamptey hasn’t played for us in months. He’s not fit to play for us, so how can he play for Ghana?”

With the provisional squad boasting 55 players, the final roster will be trimmed to 27 individuals who will represent Ghana in the highly anticipated tournament. The inclusion of Lamptey, despite his ongoing injury concerns, raises questions about the communication between national team management and club coaches.

As Ghana gears up for the AFCON, scheduled to commence with a match against Cape Verde on January 14, followed by clashes against Egypt and Mozambique, concerns surrounding the fitness of key players could impact the team’s performance. The Black Stars, eager to make a significant impact in the competition, aim to secure their first AFCON title since 1982.

While preparations for the tournament are underway, the Ghanaian football community remains attentive to the final squad selection and how the national team will address the challenges posed by injuries to key players like Tariq Lamptey.