Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo captains Black Stars for first time

Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo has been handed the Black Stars captain’s armband for the first time as Ghana lock horns with Japan in the Kirin Cup. 

Semenyo, who has been in a rich vein of form is leading the West African football heavyweights for the first with several senior players missing the friendlies due to injury setbacks.

Captain Jordan Ayew together with his deputy Thomas Partey could not join the Black Stars for the November international break due to fitness issues. Fellow senior players including Alexander Djiku and Mohammed Kudus pulled out of the games due to setbacks.

However, the former Bristol City attacker has been given the nod to lead the team as they take on the Asian giants in a preparatory match.

The 25-year-old enterprising forward is making his 32^nd appearances for the Black Stars since making his debut in June 2022, scoring just three goals across the period.

Meanwhile, Ghana coach Otto Addo has handed goalkeeper Joseph Anang and Derrick Kohn debut appearances for the national team, while in-from Coventry City attacker Brandon Thomas-Asante lead the lines for the Black Stars.