President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has urged greater respect and recognition for players who have consistently demonstrated commitment to the Black Stars, amid renewed debate over dual-national footballers such as Eddie Nketiah and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
His remarks follow after multiple reports emerged suggesting that several foreign-born players have expressed interest in representing Ghana after the Black Stars secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Mr Okraku expressed his displeasure with the continuous public fixation on players who have previously rejected Ghana, stressing that his administration’s stance on such matters remains firm.
“I think there’s been too much focus on the Nketiah and Odoi issue. I prefer not to comment further on that matter. I have been very clear on the policy direction. It is my responsibility to ensure that Ghana, our beloved country, is respected by everybody,” he stated.
The GFA President highlighted that the current Black Stars squad, composed of players who battled through the qualifiers, deserve the nation’s full admiration and support.
“There are players who started for Ghana to get the 25 points out of the 30 points in the World Cup Qualifiers. They deserve respect,” he emphasised.
Okraku further stressed that representing the national team should come from genuine patriotism and commitment, not convenience or outside influence.
“If you want to represent Ghana, come with a clean heart,” he added.
His comments reaffirm the GFA’s focus on building a Black Stars team anchored in loyalty, hard work, and pride in the national jersey.
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