Ghana Coach Otto Addo Justifies Mubarak Wakaso's Inclusion In The Black Stars Squad

• Otto Addo has shed light on the reason behind Mubarak Wakaso's inclusion in the Black Stars despite being inactive for more than half a year
• Wakaso has been capped 67 times by the Black Stars, contributing 13 goals and has been named in the Black Stars squad for the upcoming international assignments much to the chagrin of a section of Ghanaians
• The former Villarreal star returns to the team for the games against Madagascar and the Central African Republic

Black Stars trainer Otto Addo has explained why veteran midfielder Mubarak Wakaso was named in the 33-man squad ahead of the upcoming 2023 AFCON qualifiers and the international friendlies.

The former Villarreal and Deportivo Alves midfielder has not played competitive football in over six months raising questions about his inclusion into Otto Addo's squad.

His inclusion divided opinions among Ghanaian football-loving fans with critics questioning his match fitness while a school of thought defending his inclusion contends his experience will be crucial for the Black Stars in the absence of Thomas Partey.

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Making meaning of his inclusion in the squad, head coach Otto Addo stressed that Wakaso's experience is vital for the upcoming international assignments.

"We have experienced players who showed that they have the quality. How did you find his [Wakaso's] performance when we beat South Africa 1-0?" Addo quipped the press.

One of the pressmen responded 'Fantastic' with Addo remarking: "That's the answer."

Otto Addo's charges begin their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with a home fixture against Madagascar on Wednesday, June 1 at the Cape Coast Stadium before squaring off against the Central Africa Republic on June 5.

The four-time African champions will also head to Japan to participate in the Kirin tournament as part of preparations for the FIFA World Cup, which will be played later this year.

Wakaso's Black Stars inclusion divides opinions among Ghanaians

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Mubarak Wakaso is dividing opinions in Ghana after his name appeared in the squad to be released for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers next month.

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The midfielder, who has been inactive for almost seven months returns to the team for the games against Madagascar and the Central African Republic in June.

His inclusion has seen fans react, with some wondering what his role will be in the time while others want him out.