Asamoah Gyan endorses praise for Jonas Adjetey after improved display against Wales

Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has given his stamp of approval to observations that Black Stars defender Jonas Adjetey stepped up in Ghana's 1-1 draw with Wales, despite struggling in recent outings.

Taking to social media after the match, Gyan simply wrote "FACTS" in response to a post highlighting that Adjetey, who has been poor in recent games, delivered a much-improved performance against the Welsh.

The friendly at Cardiff City Stadium saw Ghana take the lead in the 66th minute through a well-taken finish from Caleb Yirenkyi, who continued his red-hot form from FC Norsdjaelland. The midfielder pounced on a rebound after a great run from Ernest Nuamah and calmly slotted past the Welsh goalkeeper to give the Black Stars the advantage.

However, Ghana's lead was cancelled in injury time.

Adjetey, who has faced criticism for his performances in recent friendly defeats to Austria and Germany, produced a composed and commanding display at the heart of the defence. The centre-back recorded an 79% pass accuracy, made nine clearances, two blocks and won two duels.

His improved showing was a welcome sight for head coach Carlos Queiroz, who has been searching for a reliable defensive partnership ahead of the World Cup.

Gyan, who led Ghana to the World Cup quarter-finals in 2010, rarely comments on individual performances, making his endorsement of Adjetey's showing notable. For the defender, the challenge now is to carry that form into Ghana's Group L opener against Panama on June 17.

Ghana will also face England and Croatia in the group stage. If Adjetey can maintain this level, he could prove to be a key figure for the Black Stars in North America.