BY ISSAH OLEGOR
Ghana caretaker coachn Kim Lars Björkegre has announced a 26-man Black Stars squad for the crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Somalia, with captain Jordan Ayew and Tottenham Hotspur forward Mohammed Kudus headlining the list of returning players.
The squad, which combines experienced foreign-based professionals with promising talents from the Ghana Premier League, comes at a critical moment for Ghana following a disappointing start to the qualifying campaign.
The Black Stars currently sit at the bottom of Group C without a point after suffering consecutive defeats to Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia in their opening two matches.
Björkegren will be hoping the return of some of Ghana’s established players, alongside fresh additions from the domestic league, will provide the necessary quality and competition as the team attempts to revive its qualification hopes.
Jordan Ayew returns after missing last month’s qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia because of a groin injury. The experienced forward has recovered and is expected to provide leadership and attacking options as Ghana prepares for the two encounters.
Mohammed Kudus is another major addition to the squad. The Tottenham Hotspur forward has not featured for the Black Stars in 2026 after an injury ruled him out of the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
His return will be an important boost for the technical team, particularly as Ghana seeks greater creativity and attacking threat following its disappointing performances in the opening qualifying matches.
Another notable inclusion is Germany-based midfielder Daniel Kofi Kyereh, who returns to the national team after four years away from international football.
Kyereh has been absent from the Black Stars since December 2022 because of injury. His recall offers him an opportunity to re-establish himself in the national team setup and provide additional options in midfield.
Defender Alidu Seidu has also been recalled as Björkegren strengthens his defensive options ahead of the double-header.
