Appiah returns to training

Ghana captain Stephen Appiah returned to training on Tuesday with his Turkish club Fenerbache after five months out with a knee injury.

The 26-year-old underwent major knee surgery after suffering the injury in May and the midfielder is already eyeing a return to action next week.

Fenerbache have struggled without him as they lost 2-0 at home to newly-promoted Istanbul BB in the opening game of the season.

Appiah is eager to help the Turkish champions to turn their fortunes around.

"I'm very unhappy with our start to the season but with the help of my team-mates we can turn up the heat on our main rivals," Appiah told BBC Sport.

"Personally I have gone through a very difficult period in my life but I thank God that I am fully fit.

"I could see in the eyes of my coaches and team-mates that they were excited about my return because I have never stayed out so long with an injury.

"I should be in action when we play Inter Milan in the Champions League next week."

Appiah is also looking forward to play for the Black Stars on home soil as Ghana host the African Cup of Nations finals in January.

"Ghanaians were very worried about my injury but now that I'm fully fit I can assure them that they will see the best of me in January," he said.

"I owe it to the people of my country to be in the best shape of my life when we host the tournament to ensure that we win the trophy.

"Even though I have not played for the Black Stars since February I have followed they team and I should no problems fitting into the squad."

Credit: BBC