Ghana's hopes of winning their fifth African Cup of Nations title on home soil next month suffered a severe blow on Thursday when doctors ruled inspirational captain Stephen Appiah out of the tournament.

The Turkey-based midfielder was ruled out of action for two months after tests in Italy, meaning he will not be available for his country when the tournament starts on 20 January.

The 27-year-old suffered serious complications from a knee operation he had in May which resulted in the clotting of his blood.

Appiah was keen to play for Ghana despite warnings from Turkish doctors of serious consequences but he opted to go to Italy for a second opinion on his condition.

But the Italian doctors have confirmed that playing in the tournament could prove a danger to his health resulting in the captain pulling out.

"The news has come as a bitter blow to Stephen," a statement on the player's website said.

"[He] has been working hard in the last week or so to prove he is fine and fit.

"Stephen [would] like to say a big thank you to all his fans and well wishers who have sent him get well soon messages in the last few weeks.

"He is very grateful for your support."

The Fenerbahce midfielder is upset about being unavailable to help lift the trophy as he considers the tournament on home soil as the right opportunity for Ghana to re-establish itself as Africa strongest footballing country.

Appiah's absence will be a huge blow to the host country. The captain is an inspirational part of the Black Stars set-up. He lead the way as they became the only African side to make it through the knock-out stages of the World Cup in Germany in 2006. He scored the winning penalty in their match against USA - a victory which sent them through to the last 16.

Appiah will travel to join the team to provide the players with inspiration during the tournament.