Ghana’s goalkeeping coach, Daniel Gasper, has expressed optimism over the recovery of first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi ahead of the Black Stars’ crucial Group L encounter against England.
Ati-Zigi was forced off at halftime during Ghana’s opening match against Panama on Wednesday at BMO Field, raising concerns over his availability for the remainder of the tournament.
The 28-year-old was replaced by Benjamin Asare, who helped the Black Stars secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory to begin their campaign on a winning note.
Providing an update on the goalkeeper’s condition, Gasper said the technical team is encouraged by Ati-Zigi’s progress and will continue to assess him on a day-to-day basis.
“We’re extremely happy with his progress. It’s day by day. Obviously, this is a medical issue collaborated with head coach Carlos Queiroz, so we’ll take it session by session,” Gasper said during an interview with the Ghana FA website.
The goalkeeping coach added that any decision regarding Ati-Zigi’s return would be taken carefully and with the team’s interests in mind.
“We’re optimistic, and the decision will be made at the right time. But one thing is for sure — we always stress the team above the individual. Any decision we make is in the best interest of the team,” he added.
The update comes as a major boost for Ghana, with Ati-Zigi having returned to group training in Rhode Island ahead of Tuesday’s highly anticipated clash against England.
The Black Stars will be hoping their first-choice goalkeeper can recover in time as they seek to build on their winning start and strengthen their chances of progressing from Group L.
