2023 AFCON: Richard Ofori was named in Black Stars squad to help him get a club - Medeama SC goalie Felix Kyei

Medeama SC goalkeeper Felix Kyei has shed light on the circumstances surrounding his exclusion from Ghana’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast, revealing that Richard Ofori's inclusion was a strategic move to help the latter secure a new club.

Despite enjoying an impressive run of form in the Ghana Premier League, Kyei was only named on the standby list, while Ofori, who had been struggling at club level, made the final 26-man roster.

Speaking in an interview on Medeama FM, the 22-year-old shared details of a private conversation he had with then-Black Stars coach Chris Hughton.

“We were preparing to leave for AFCON, and I had a game in Tamale with Medeama when I received a call from Coach Chris Hughton,” Kyei recalled. “He praised my performance and encouraged me to keep it up. He told me I was on the standby list and would be called up if anything unexpected happened before the tournament.”

According to Kyei, Hughton admitted that if he had to drop a goalkeeper, it would have been Richard Ofori. However, he explained that Ofori's leadership qualities and off-field influence made him a valuable addition to the squad.

“He told me that Ofori’s selection was also meant to help him regain confidence and attract interest from potential clubs,” Kyei added.

Kyei said he took the decision in stride, acknowledging the coach’s authority. “It was during the Christmas period, and Hughton wished me well. I told him I understood—he’s the head coach, and he knows what’s best for the team. These things happen in football,” he concluded.