Ghana coach Otto Addo says it’s not a problem if Jordan Ayew is not scoring, provided that he keeps creating chances.
Jordan continues to be a starter for the Black Stars despite his struggles in front of goal, having not scored for the national team in over a year.
The Crystal Palace striker once again failed to get on the score sheet when Ghana beat Madagascar 3-0 in a 2023 AFCON qualifier on Wednesday.
Despite not scoring, though, Jordan was one of the better performers, with the forward testing the Malagasy goalkeeper a number of times.
Addressing journalists in his post-match press conference, Addo leapt to the defence of Jordan, insisting the striker’s lack of goals is not a big problem.
“The players who started [against Madagascar] deserved to do so, including Jordan [Ayew],” the Black Stars coach stated.
“Jordan had good training sessions and he created some chances [during the game]. He himself had some chances; the [Madagascar] goalkeeper had an excellent day.
“If you watch the Premier League, sometimes you can see Jordan score; his last goal was maybe three weeks ago. It’s not a big problem if somebody doesn’t score. For me, it’s about creating chances and doing well and that’s what he did today so I’m satisfied.”
Meanwhile, Ghana have moved to the top of Group C of the 2023 AFCON qualifiers following their heavy win against Madagascar.
Second-half goals from Mohammed Kudus, Felix Afena-Gyan and substitute Osman Bukari saw the Black Stars open their qualifying campaign with a comfortable victory.
Goals scored this season by Black Stars Strikers for their respective clubs:
Jordan Ayew — 3
Daniel Afriyie Barnieh — 10
Felix Afena-Gyan — 2
Kwasi Okyere Wriedt — 7
Benjamin Tetteh — 8
Antoine Semenyo — 10
Baryon Manu — 4
