Ghana defender John Pantsil insists Black Stars players are desirous of winning trophies and not pocket huge monies following growing criticism over their commitment to the national team.

Players of the Ghanaian national team have come under line of fire following the country’s 2014 World Cup campaign which was wreaked by appearance fee row. Players refused to train and threatened to boycott the final group game against Portugal in protest over non-payment of a $100,000 appearance fee.

Confusion over the monetary issue escalated when AC Milan midfielder Sulley Muntari attacked a management member Moses Armah during a meeting to find an amicable solution to the problem.

But Pantsil, who currently plays for South African side Maritzburg United, insists the players are not motivated by money.

“We want to win the Nations Cup for Ghanaians. That is where the focus is and not money,” he said.

“Black Stars players are not motivated by money. When we win and people are happy, we know the money will come naturally.

“I don’t think and believe that our primary focus is on money. We want to win trophies and make our people happy and proud.

“Money will obviously follow when you win. So as far as I’m concerned, it’s not money issue.”

Some of the players are yet to sign the new contract and code of conduct introduced by the Ghana FA.