Persistent injuries hampered my career - Ex-Ghana defender Daniel Opare
Former Ghana international Daniel Opare has admitted recurring injuries prevented him from fulfilling the immense potential many believed he possessed during his early years in football.
The former Royal Antwerp F.C. defender was once considered one of the brightest young prospects in the game, with a career path that included spells in Europe and appearances for the Ghana national football team.
Speaking to JoySports, Opare said while he remains grateful for reaching the top level, injuries remain his biggest regret.
"It is not easy to get to that level, so [I am thankful]," he said.
"I regretted a little bit because of the injuries, because I could have fulfilled my potential.
"Personally, my potential was not fully fulfilled [because of injuries], that was my only regret," Opare added.
Opare was named in Ghana’s squad ahead of the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations but was forced to withdraw after suffering an ankle injury during preparations in Dubai.
He was also in line to become Ghana’s first-choice right-back before the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, only for another injury setback to rule him out weeks before the competition, paving the way for Harrison Afful to claim the position.
At club level, Opare enjoyed some of his best form with Standard Liège after joining the side in 2010 from Real Madrid Castilla.
His impressive displays earned him a move to FC Porto in 2014, shortly before the 2014 FIFA World Cup, but injuries again disrupted his momentum.
Later spells with FC Augsburg, RC Lens and Beşiktaş J.K. were also hampered by fitness issues, limiting his appearances between 2015 and 2017.