Brighton and Hove Albion defender Tariq Lamptey has disclosed why he decided to play for Ghana instead of waiting for England.
Despite playing at the youth levels for England, the 22-year old right-back decided to switch nationality to play for Ghana.
Speaking on Citi FM in Accra, Tariq Lamptey revealed that the overwhelming support he received from Ghanaians pushed him to switch nationality for the West African country.
“A number of things came into it especially when it happened and I think one of the big decisions was when I was doing my charity foundation and you see people around and they give you that amazing feeling and you are grateful for the support as always and that influenced my decision to play for the Black Stars,” he revealed.
Meanwhile, Tariq Lamptey could miss Ghana’s game against Madagascar in matchday five of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on June 18, 2023.
It is believed that coach Chris Hughton will announce Ghana squad for Madagascar game next week without Tariq Lamptey, Salisu Mohammed and Antoine Semenyo who are all injured.
Ghana will travel to Antananarivo for the Madagascar game at the Stade Kianja Barea before hosting Central African Republic in the final game of the qualifiers.
Notable players, including captain Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, Joseph Paintsil, Mohammed Kudus, Kamaldeen Suelemana, Abdul Salis Samed, and Thomas Partey, are anticipated to make the squad.
Ghana currently sit atop Group E in the AFCON qualifiers, amassing 8 points and will have to win the remaining two matches to ensure qualification.
Ghana has so far secure victories in two matches against Madagascar and Angola, while also earning draws against Central African Republic and Angola in the initial four fixtures.
