Experienced defender John Pantsil says he hold no grudge against Kwesi Appiah for excluding him from Ghana’s provisional World Cup squad.

The 32-year-old, who plays for South African second-tier side Santos FC, has been denied a third World Cup appearance.

Pantsil’s international career took a nosedive after representing Ghana at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

He had his contract terminated by Israeli side Hapoel Tel Aviv and a much-publicized domestic problem with his wife did not help matters.

The former West Ham and Fulham right-back is among players the Black Stars old guards who were snubbed by Appiah. But Pantsil has taken the rejection and good stride and is backing the team to do well in Brazil.

“I am not bitter at all. Instead, I feel I have served my nation well and an opportunity has been given to another person to continue,” Pantsil told Accra based Power FM.

“Football is all about team work and I pray the coach finds the requisite technique in getting the best out of the team.”

Pantsil is one of Ghana’s longest serving defenders and featured prominently at the 2006 finals in Germany and the last tournament in South Africa four years ago.