Gideon Mensah will not be able to participate in Ghana’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Madagascar on June 18, 2023. Mensah reported to camp but did not train with the team due to a knee injury he sustained during the season while playing for AJ Auxerre.
The medical team assessed Mensah’s condition and decided to withdraw him from the squad in order to avoid exacerbating the injury. Dr. Prince Pambo, the team’s medical head, stated that Mensah will have sufficient rest during the break to recover in time for the next season.
With Mensah’s absence, Patrick Kpodzo, who received his first call-up in 2022 but has yet to play for the Black Stars, is the only available left-back. Coach Hughton is expected to announce a replacement for Mensah by Tuesday, June 13.
The team will continue their preparations for the AFCON qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on June 13 before departing Ghana on June 16. The match against Madagascar will take place on June 18 at the Stade Kianja Barea in Antananarivo.
