'We have problems at that position' – Otto Addo reveals defensive crisis behind Caleb Yirenkyi deployment

Otto Addo has laid bare the injury crisis that forced him to deploy Caleb Yirenkyi at right-back, with two specialist options unavailable for Ghana's friendlies against Austria and Germany.

Speaking after Ghana's 5-1 loss to Austria, the Black Stars coach explained that injuries to Alidu Seidu and Tariq Lamptey have left him with limited choices in a position already thin on depth.

"We have problems at that very position. We used to play with Alidu Seidu, who has a little bit issues with injuries at his club. Also Tariq Lamptey, who has a long-term injury. So Caleb jumped into that position," Addo said.

Yirenkyi, a natural midfielder, endured a difficult outing in Vienna, but Addo defended the 20-year-old, pointing to his contributions in World Cup qualifying matches.

"It's easy now to say he didn't do well there, but he did well in some matches we won and qualified for the World Cup."

Addo noted that while midfield options are plentiful, the right-back shortage has left him with little choice.

"To be honest, we have a lot of options in the midfield with Elisha Owusu and Ibrahim Sulemana and the others. That's why he [Yirenkyi] predominantly plays there."

The arrival of Marvin Senaya, who recently committed his international future to Ghana, offers a potential solution. Addo indicated the AJ Auxerre defender will be gradually integrated as he adapts to the system.

"Now we are happy to get Marvin. He is new to the system, so we have to see for the future."

With Ghana set to face Germany on Monday, Addo will be hoping Senaya can quickly adjust as the Black Stars look to address the defensive frailties exposed in Vienna.