English-born Ghanaian defender Jerome Opoku who plays for Plymouth Argyle, has spoken of his pride at being invited to join up with the Ghana international squad for the first time.
The Fulham loanee will not, however, be taking up the opportunity on this occasion.
That is due to the continuing Covid-19 pandemic and the issues surrounding international travel at the moment.
Opoku was born in Lambeth, south-east London, but is of Ghanaian descent.
After playing regularly for Argyle this season on loan from Premier League club Fulham, he was contacted about the possibility of a first call-up for Ghana.
They are playing their final two qualifiers for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations later this month.
Ghana, four-time African Champions, will be away to South Africa in Johannesburg on Tuesday, March 25 before hosting Sao Tome and Principe in Cape Coast four days later.
Had Opoku taken up the chance to join up with the Ghana squad for the game in South Africa he would have had to quarantine for 10 days on his return to the UK.
That was one of the issues which were taken into consideration before it was decided Opoku would not make the trip.
Opoku told Argyle’s official club website: “I am very proud. For me and my family it was a big thing, to be recognised by my country.
“It’s a difficult thing, not being able to go, but I think it is for the best.
“I have spoken to a lot of people, family, and friends in football, and the whole Covid situation is challenging. For everyone’s safety it’s the right option not to travel at this time.
“I think the call-up reflects my performances, and the progress I have made at Argyle.
“I am grateful to the club, the manager, and everyone around the team for helping me improve my game and gain national recognition.
“I would like to thank Ghana for presenting me with the opportunity, and hopefully there will be more to come.”
Opoku has made 27 starts and five substitute appearances for Argyle since arriving on loan from Fulham in September.
Manager Ryan Lowe said: “Obviously, we are very proud of Jerome, getting a first international call-up is an incredible achievement.
“Unfortunately, the circumstances have stopped him going because of the Covid situation, but we just want to congratulate him for his hard work while on loan at Argyle.
“It is obviously a bittersweet moment for him, to be recognised by his country, but he should be very proud. I’m certain he’ll get the opportunity again in the near future.”
Ghana are top of Group C in qualifying for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, the finals of which have been delayed until January 2022 due to Covid-19.
They are level on points with South Africa, with both of those countries set to secure the two qualification places.
Ghana coach CK Akonnor has named a squad of 29 players for the games against South Africa and Sao Tome and Principe.
The 29-man squad included Colchester United midfielder Kwame Adubofour Afriyie Poku.
