The Juventus star sheds light on his withdrawal from the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations with Ghana.
Juventus midfield Kwadwo Asamoah has shed light on his decision to be excused from Ghana's squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
Having returned from his last of recurrent injuries in October, the 28-year-old, who has been absent from the national set-up since 2014, had been tipped to make a return as Ghana hunt for a fifth continental silverware in Gabon.
He was part of the Black Stars' contingent for the showpiece in 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2013.
"Not joining up with the Ghana squad was a difficult call to make," Asamoah told JTV.
"Both the coach and the president of the FA called me on numerous occasions and I was keen to underline just how much I would have loved to have been there in Gabon.
"But after the injuries I have suffered in the past couple of years, my primary focus now is working hard here and playing as often as I can.
"I'm pleased to be staying here so I can continue training and be ready for my team when required."
Having joined Juve in 2012, Asamoah made his seventh league appearance of the season as a left-back in Sunday's 3-0 Serie A triumph over Bologna.
“Luckily, I’m able to play multiple positions," Asamoah said.
'It was a nice win in what wasn’t the easiest of games. It was the best way to start the New Year.
"For us, it’s very important to hear our fans. Their affection gives us a big boost.
"I’m not able to say if this is the best Juventus team I’ve played in.
"Juventus are always strong. From when I came, we’ve always had a good team, either in the locker room or on the field.”
The Afcon runs between January 14 and February 5, with the Black Stars set to face Egypt, Mali and Uganda in Group D.
<<Print>>