Soccer News of Wednesday, 23 January 2013

Source: The Guardian

Bristol City fans pray for Ghana’s early elimination

MANY Bristol City fans have missed the services of winger Albert Adomah and will be happy if Ghana is eliminated from the Africa Cup of Nations.

In his absence, the Robins have failed to register a single goal in three matches.

Adomah could potentially be away for another three weeks if the Black Stars progress to the latter stages of the tournament.

The 25-year-old played for 81 minutes of Sunday’s game against DR Congo, which ended in a 2-2 draw.

Ghana is under pressure when they meet Group B leaders Mali Thursday before engaging Niger next Monday.

If the Black Stars fail to advance, Adomah will be available for selection ahead of the trip to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday 2 February.

Meanwhile, Ghana coach Kwesi Appiah expects Christian Atsu to find his rhythm in subsequent Group B matches at the Africa Cup Nations.

The hugely talented youngster was a shadow of his former self, which saw him being linked with a host of European sides during last June’s transfer window.

Atsu-one of Ghana’s debutants at the tournament, was handed a starting role but could not meet expectations.

The FC Porto midfielder made little impact in Sunday’s 2-2 draw with DR Congo in Port Elizabeth.

But Appiah believes the 20-year-old will rediscover his form as the tournament progresses.

“Atsu is one of the young talents that every Ghanaian relied on to start very well in such a competition,” Appiah said.

“Most of the time, you could be the best player in the world but once you go into a competition that you have not been in before, you may start slowly.

“I have been talking to him and we need to raise his confidence level and psyche him up.

“And I believe that Atsu, even though we did not have a good game on Sunday, along the line you will see the real Atsu.”