New Black Stars role for Appiah

Ghana coach Claude Le Roy is confident that injured captain Stephen Appiah can play a role to help the Black Stars win their fifth Nations Cup trophy.

Appiah, who has overseen his country's revival with his astute leadership style, has been ruled out of next month's tournament after suffering a complication following a surgery on his knee.

The Fenerbahce midfielder is his country's most influential player and will be out of action for two months, denting the chances of Ghana winning the title.

Even though he will be absent during the tournament which starts on 20 January, coach Le Roy says Appiah can still help the country win the tournament in another role.

"Even without Stephen we'll try to do our best to win the competition," the Frenchman told BBC Sport.

"That's why I want him to join us for our training camp and if possible to be with us during the tournament as well.

"We will use him as a special adviser because he can bring a lot to the team even without playing."

Appiah will have travel with his medical team next month?s training tour in Dubai and the Nations Cup in Ghana if he accepts the offers.

Ghanasoccernet understands that the Ghana captain is keen on the role to help his country win the title.