2026 World Cup: Ian Ian Wright hails Thomas-Asante rise as “Semenyo-Style” success story after Ghana's win over Panama
Former England and Arsenal striker Ian Wright has praised Ghana forward Brandon Thomas-Asante for his steady rise through the English football pyramid, describing his journey as one that mirrors the path taken by compatriot Antoine Semenyo.
Thomas-Asante’s route to the top has been shaped by persistence and gradual progression across the lower leagues before reaching the international stage with Ghana at the FIFA World Cup.
After leaving Milton Keynes Dons, the forward rebuilt his career at Salford City following a successful trial, where he developed into a key figure. His performances earned him a move to West Bromwich Albion, before later joining Coventry City, where his form eventually pushed him into Ghana’s national team setup.
Speaking on Thomas-Asante’s progress, Wright drew clear parallels with Semenyo’s own rise through the English system.
“What I love about it is it’s the same as Semenyo. Semenyo was doing all of it. He was going through it,” Wright said.
He added that both players underline how quickly fortunes can change in football when perseverance meets opportunity.
“And how quickly it can happen. He’s done that journey. He’s come up now with Coventry, and he’s playing in the World Cup. He’s come back to play in the Premier League. And bam,” he said.
Semenyo’s career has followed a similarly patient path, beginning in Bristol City’s academy before gaining experience on loan at Newport County.
He later established himself in the Championship and eventually progressed to Premier League football, with his recent form further elevating his profile at the top level.
For Wright, the two stories reflect the unpredictable nature of football development and the rewards available to players who continue to push through setbacks.
“You have to hang in there,” he said.
Both Thomas-Asante and Semenyo featured in Ghana’s World Cup victory over Panama, a result that strengthened the Black Stars’ position in Group L, where they sit behind England.
Ghana now turn their focus to a high-profile clash with England on June 23 at Gillette Stadium, before completing their group campaign against Croatia four days later.
The Black Stars will be aiming to maintain momentum as they target a return to the knockout stages for the first time since their memorable run to the quarter-finals in 2010.