Former Ghana striker Augustine Arhinful has lamented the Black Stars’ inability to find the back of the net in the absence of Asamoah Gyan in the wake of Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to Egypt.

The injured Al Ahli frontman was a notable absentee from coach Avram Grant’s outfit for the matchday two encounter of the 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifiers in Alexandria.

Despite Ghana’s huge domination during the encounter they failed to convert their numerous chances.

“We see one thing and we’re so content with it and we don’t want to look the other way,” Arhinful told Goal.

“I’m sure that along the line, if [other] players were given the chance, it would have been better as we speak.

“Formerly, Matthew Amoah could score at any given time, Asamoah could score, Sulley Muntari, Michael Essien and Stephen Appiah could all score.

“But as we speak Asamoah scores, Andre Ayew scores and Christian Atsu scores once a while. As compared to the previous team, it has become very difficult for us to score if Asamoah Gyan is not around.”

Gyan is Ghana’s all-time top scorer with 48 goals in 96 matches, having played at three World Cup tournaments between 2006 and 2014.

“We did not look outside the box to scout,” Arhinful added.

“Very soon, in about two years or after the next World Cup, the national team duty of Gyan might come to an end.

“We need to start preparing very well. As we speak, I cannot pinpoint anyone who will come and replace him.

“Those in charge of the national team are supposed to give us answers.”

Gyan, 30, made his debut as a 17-year-old in a 2006 World Cup qualifier against Somalia in 2003.