Posted by Black Stars B manager CK Akonnor has has advised the Ghana Football Association to change it approach in convincing foreign-based Ghanaian players to play for the national team.
Earlier this year, Black Stars manager Ck Akonnor disclosed that Ghana FA is working on getting about seven European-born players to represent the national team, with names like Tariq Lamptey, Eddie Nketiah, Elisha Owusu, Alexander Djiku and some few others being mentioned.
Nevertheless, the FA has found it difficult convincing these players, with Jeremy Doku recently snubbing Ghana to make an appearance for his country of birth, Belgium.
“There is a lot of Ghanaian talent abroad, especially in England, Germany, and Holland but we always wait for them to play first-team football before they get our attention,” Tanko, a former Ghana international and assistant coach, told Wontumi Sports.
“If we want to integrate them into our national team, we need to start early. A player like Tariq Lamptey has the potential of playing for the England national team because he plays in England.”
Tanko also added that former Black Stars players residing outside the country could be tasked to monitor and convince potential players.
“In Germany, we have Otto Addo, Eric Addo in Holland, Adu Tutu is also in Austria and Razak in Denmark,” Tanko said.
“If we ask these former players to speak to the youngsters, they can convince them because they have experience in dealing with players.
“I know the Turkish FA have an office in Germany because they know they are Turkish players who are based in Germany. So if we do the same, we will get these players,” he added.