Midfielder Daniel-Kofi Kyereh has opened up on how a timely phone call from former Ghana captain Stephen Appiah played a crucial role in helping him cope with a long and difficult injury setback.
Kyereh, who made his debut for the Ghana national team in 2021, suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2022 that kept him out of action for a prolonged period, halting what had been a promising rise in his career.
The 28-year-old has only recently returned to competitive football, featuring for SC Freiburg II last month as he continues his gradual comeback to full fitness.
Speaking in an interview with JoySports, Kyereh said he was deeply encouraged when Appiah—who endured his own injury struggles during his playing days—personally reached out to him during rehabilitation.
“During my time in rehab, he called me. I was so surprised and honoured to receive his call,” he said.
“He’s such a nice guy. He gave me some really encouraging words and motivated me to come back stronger,” Kyereh added.
Appiah’s message, he said, helped him stay mentally strong during one of the toughest phases of his career.
Kyereh is now working his way back into top form and is expected to be in contention for a place in Ghana’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup later this year.
