Ernest Nuamah Apologises After AFCON U23 Exit, Rejects Reports of Unpatriotic Behaviour

• Ernest Nuamah has responded to critics after Ghana's AFCON U23 exit
• The Black Meteors forward was accused of unsportsmanlike behaviour
• Nuamah has also been nominated for the prestigious Golden Boy prize

Ghana forward, Ernest Nuamah, has sincerely apologised to his compatriots following the team's early exit from the U23 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Black Meteors failed to secure one of the tickets to the Olympic Games in Paris next year, following their poor showing in Morocco.

The 1-1 draw against Guinea in the final Group A game means Ghana will now miss out on the Olympics for the fifth time since last making an appearance at the event.

Before the final match, Nuamah - who had arrived in camp just a day before the tournament - was reported to have asked to be excused from the game against Guinea.

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However, just hours before the game, he apparently changed his mind and was included in the squad.

In a post on Instagram, Nuamah spoke about the 'unlocked dreams, lessons, and growth' he experienced while on national duty, and committed himself to a mindset of 'grind, hustle, and grow'.

"In accepting this growth path, I’ll take this opportunity to clear unfounded stories of choosing an uninvited All Star Game over Ghana and any one of us feeling bigger than our gifted U23 mates," he also stated.

Nuamah explained he had issues concerning his health after a long season, having to leave after the second game due to fatigue. He added context in that the tournament was not on the FIFA calendar.

"No excuses, but our performances as a group was below expectations but personally, I could do better. As a group, if we ever have the opportunity again, Ghana deserves better. I made some wrong decisions but I am grateful for this opportunity," he continued.

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The Black Meteors youngster enjoyed an outstanding year in Europe, resulting in his nomination for the Golden Boy award, as reported by 90min.

Nuamah gets Golden Boy nomination

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Black Stars debutant, Nuamah being nominated for an award after making a list of the top 100 young players in the world.

The Golden Boy award is presented a most outstanding U-21 player, with nominees also including Jude Bellingham and Bayern Munich's Jamal Musiala.