Andre Ayew counts on maturity at Nations Cup

Andre Dede Ayew says he has garnered the requisite experience for an improved display at next month's Africa Cup of Nations than the last edition on home soil.

 
The then 18-year-old Olympique Marseille midfielder was named in Claude Le Roy's 23-man squad to the surprise of many.

 
He played a bit part role in Ghana's bronze medal winning feat but he is remembered for his starting role in the semi-final clash against Cameroon.

 
Dede claims he has been toughend by the more playing time at Ligue 2 side Arles Avignon and hopes to replicate his performance at the Fifa Under-20 World Cup.

 
"I must admit that a lot of things have happened between now and then. I'm now 20 and I can say that I'm not the same and that show in my play Insha Allah," Dede told Ghanasoccernet.com

 
"The last time was a bit difficult because that was my first major competition but I think that has helped me to become a better player.

 
"With support of my Under-20 colleagues we won both the Africa and World cup and I think that is good experience."

 
He added:"I pray to God myself and the team get a good tournament in Angola so that we can lift the trophy."

 
Meanwhile Rahim Ayew is relishing playing alongside his brother in the Ghana squad but admits there is a lot to done on the pitch. 

 
The Zamalek midfielder hogged the headlines during the maiden African Nations Championship in Ivory Coast early this year where Ghana won silver.

 
He believes they can cope with the public expectations. 

 
"In Ghana some people are asking why the two of us have been invited but this is not history. In 2008, Asamoah and Baffour Gyan were in there but that is not the issue, we have to perform period," Rahim said.

  
"I have spoken to him(Dede) and we know only one thing can set us free-that is performing well. We are confident we can make it."

 
Ghana will begin their pre-tournament training camp in Nelspruit, South Africa on 28 December.