Big Blow: Inaki Williams Withdraws from Ghana’s Squad for AFCON Qualifier Against Madagascar Due to….
Ghanaian forward, Inaki Williams, has regrettably announced his withdrawal from Ghana’s national squad ahead of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group E qualifier against Madagascar. The match is scheduled to take place at the Stade Kianja Barea in Antananarivo on Sunday, June 18, 2023. Inaki Williams, who was among the players called up by head coach Chris Hughton for the crucial game, cited an ongoing knee injury as the reason behind his decision.
In a statement, Inaki Williams expressed his disappointment at not being able to honor the call-up due to the lingering knee problem he has been managing for several weeks. He revealed that after consultations with medical experts, it was concluded that he should take a break to address the issue and ensure a full recovery in time for the preseason.
“I want to say that I am fully committed and I will come back with the Blackstars if the coach deems it appropriate next calls. Thank you four your support,” the statement ended.
Making this decision was not an easy task for Inaki Williams, as it means he will be unable to join his national team, Ghana, in their upcoming encounter. Nevertheless, he emphasized his unwavering commitment and expressed his intention to return to the Black Stars if deemed appropriate by the coach in future call-ups. In closing, he thanked his supporters for their ongoing encouragement and understanding.
With Inaki Williams out of the squad, coach Chris Hughton was expected to announce a suitable replacement before the team assembles for their training camp next week, in preparation for the crucial 2023 AFCON qualifier.In the absence of Inaki Williams, Chris Hughton has drafted Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer into the team. The Hamburg forward will join the squad in Accra when they commence camping on June 12 for the penultimate 2023 AFCON qualifier.
Ghana, currently leading Group E with 8 points from four games, aims to secure a victory against Madagascar to secure their place in the AFCON tournament, scheduled to take place in January and February next year in Cote D’Ivoire. The other teams in the group include Central Africa Republic (7 points), Angola (5 points), and Madagascar (1 point).
Ghanaian football enthusiasts and fans of the Black Stars will eagerly await the coach’s decision on the replacement for Inaki Williams, hoping that the team will maintain their winning momentum and secure a place in the prestigious AFCON tournament.
