Former Ghana assistant coach and current Hearts of Oak tactician, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, is in full support for the inclusion of England-born duo Eddie Nketiah and Callum Hudson-Odoi in the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 World Cup tournament.
With both players now reportedly showing renewed interest in representing Ghana, their omission from Addo’s 26-man squad for upcoming pre-World Cup friendlies against Austria and Germany has reignited debate among fans and pundits.
Despite previous failed attempt to secure both players for the Black Stars, Dramani, who served as one of the assistant coaches in Otto Addo first tenure has backed calls for their inclusion ahead of the global showpiece, stressing their quality is undeniable while urging a cautious approach to their international allegiance.
Nketiah, currently in the books of Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest winger Hudson-Odoi were overlooked for the fixtures, which form a crucial part of Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“I personally think team building takes time, and too many new faces may not find the cohesion and fluidity needed for team chemistry. Three months is too short to introduce too much freshness,” he told Graphic Sports.
Nevertheless, the experienced tactician was emphatic about the quality both players would bring to the squad.
“Ghana has been fortunate to have quality in the wide areas, but the quality of these two players is huge. I remember we made several attempts to get them to join the Black Stars before and after Qatar,” he revealed.
Dramani also called for patience and understanding, describing nationality switches as deeply personal and career-defining decisions that require careful consideration.
“These are lifetime decisions, and players need time to make such long-term choices about their careers. I’m not sure of their current status, but no one can doubt the quality and ability they would bring to the team,” he added.
As discussions continue, the potential inclusion of Nketiah and Hudson-Odoi remains a compelling subplot in Ghana’s build-up to the 2026 World Cup, with many hoping their addition could further strengthen the Black Stars’ attacking option
The global showpiece, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an expanded 48-team format, with Ghana securing one of Africa’s nine automatic slots.
It will be Ghana’s fifth World Cup appearance, having previously competed in 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022, with their best performance coming in 2010 when they reached the quarterfinals.
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