2014 World Cup: John Pantsil backs former Leicester City teammate Schlupp to shine in Brazil

Ghana defender John Pantsil has tipped new boy Jeffrey Schlupp to excel for the Africans at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

The 21-year-old was the surprise inclusion in Kwesi Appiah's provisional 26-man squad released on Monday.

The Germany-born utility player has only one Ghana cap but his form helped Leicester win promotion to the Premier League.

Pantsil, who played alongside the one-time Manchester United target during his spell at the Ice Kings, is confident he will shine in Brazil.

“He was my team mate when I was in Leicester,” the Santos defender told Accra-based Power FM

“He is a good player and I think this guy is one who Ghanaians can put their eye on and watch him carefully because he is going to do well and make the country proud.”

It's a big step for the man who is itching  closer to fulfilling his dream of appearing at the World Cup.