Former Ghana international George Owu has urged coach Otto Addo to trust Abdul Manaf Nurudeen and make him the first-choice goalkeeper for the Black Stars at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Nurudeen, who plays for KAS Eupen will be competing for the No.1 spot with Asante Kotoko goalkeeper, Danlad Ibrahim and Lawrence Ati-Zigi of St Gallen.
Ghana’s first choice and second choice shot-stoppers Joseph Wollacot and Richard Ofori have been ruled out of the tournament due to injuries.
Manaf put up an impressive display for Ghana during their penalty shootouts win over Chile in the 2022 Kirin Cup in June, saving three penalties.
“It’s unfortunate that Richard Ofori and Joseph Wollacot will miss out [of the World Cup] because they have the experience,” George Owu told Nhyira FM.
“Danlad is a young goalkeeper who has been in the youth sides, the local Black Stars but he needs to be monitored for some time to learn more.
“But if you look at the other two goalkeepers [Manaf & Ati Zigi], I think Manaf can do it because when given the opportunity in Japan, he proved it and Ati Zigi has been a bit on and off.
“I think he [Manaf Nurudeen] built his confidence at the Kirin tournament and the players and the coaches had trust in him as well.
“Though he was on a standby, if he’s back in the team now, why can’t he keep the post for Ghana?” He asked.