Black Satellites head coach Desmond Ofei has expressed hope that forward Jerry Afriyie can rejoin the team during the ongoing U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.
Afriyie, who featured in Ghana’s opening two group games against DR Congo and Senegal, has returned to his club CD Lugo in Spain following a pre-agreed arrangement between the Ghana Football Association and the Spanish third-tier side. Under the terms, Lugo released the striker for just the first two group matches of the tournament.
With Ghana now preparing for a crucial final Group C clash against the Central African Republic, Coach Ofei admitted Afriyie’s absence will be felt but remains optimistic about his possible return.
“Jerry Afriyie is a true leader both on and off the field. He’s a fantastic talent and we knew it would be difficult to have him for the whole tournament. Fortunately, we had him for two matches,” Ofei said. “We’ll try our best to bring him back at the right time. Hopefully, he won’t be away for long—we expect him back soon, and in his absence, we’ll continue to make him proud.”
Afriyie’s stock has risen rapidly in recent months. He made his senior debut for Ghana earlier this year, scoring in an AFCON qualifier against Niger, and joined Lugo on loan from Saudi side Al Qadsiah.
He has netted twice in seven appearances for the Spanish club, who are fighting to stay up in the third division.
Ghana has however already booked a place in the quarterfinals of the tournament after results from other groups.
