Ghana has faced challenges in finding a top-notch player for the left back position over the years.
Back in the day, players like Hans Sarpei and Harrison Afful provided solid performances from the left back role, giving Ghanaians something to cheer about.
Unfortunately, the current situation is different, and we haven’t seen the same level of consistency in that position.
Players like Baba Rahman and Gideon Mensah have been given the opportunity to fill that void, but they haven’t quite lived up to expectations.
Baba Rahman played six matches for Ghana in both the 2022 AFCON and the FIFA 2022 World Cup, but he didn’t really deliver any standout performances.
Similarly, Gideon Mensah’s performances in the five AFCON matches and two World Cup matches in 2022 were not up to par, as he also failed to impress.
It is indeed a matter of concern that needs to be addressed because it’s disappointing to see the players filling that gap not stepping up their game.
Now the big question is ; WHICH OTHER PLAYER SHOULD BE GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY THAT ROLE?
Jeffery Schlupp from Crystal Palace has been in mind as a potential candidate for that position.
He is a highly versatile and talented player in the English Premier League, consistently demonstrating exceptional performances for his club team.
It is certainly worth contemplating his inclusion for the role but due to the alleged issues with the Ghana Football
Association, he hasn’t been handed a call up to the national team.
Nevertheless, I think Ghana should consider calling Schlupp again because he brings valuable experience and versatility to the team.
His speed and ability to play both as a left back and left winger can provide options in attack and defense.
With his skills and contributions at the club level, Schlupp could be a valuable asset for the national team.
He’s been an integral member for Roy Hodgson’s side, producing great performances since the start of the season.
Schlupp is no stranger to the Black Stars, and based on the few games he has played, he appears to have a greater impact on the game compared to Rahman and Gideon Mensah.
Now let’s compare the trio’s statistics for their club teams in the last four seasons and their overall statistics in the national team.
Rahman has played 60 matches for the Black Stars, scoring 1 goal and providing 1 assist.
At club level, he has played 68 matches with 1 goal and 1 assist in the last four seasons.
Gideon Mensah has made 18 appearances for Ghana without scoring a goal, but he has provided 2 assists.
At the club level, he has made 79 appearances, providing 3 assists without scoring a goal.
Schlupp has played 19 matches at the national team level with a goal and no assist, but he has scored 9 goals and provided 6 assists at the club level in 101 appearances.
Per the statistics, Schlupp seems to have a stronger record in terms of goal contributions.
Schlupp will also offer more in both defense and attack on the left side for the Black Stars Ghana.
