On 22nd August, 2010, Stephen Appiah announced his retirement from international football.
Appiah's last outing for Ghana was against Uruguay in the quarter-final clash at the 2010 World Cup in July, 2010 and that game brought down the curtain on a glorious career that saw the 29-year-old led the Black Stars to two successive World Cup finals.
The former Juventus midfielder made his debut for the Black Stars in 1995 and led Ghana to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 2006 and the 2010 tournament in 2010.
He played a major role during his playing time with the Black Stars as he made 67 appearances and scored 14 goals.
'I have thought long and hard over this decision with my family, the Ghana FA and my friends.
'I think that this is the right moment for me to make way for the younger ones to take over the mantle because I believe they are capable.
'Deputy captain John Mensah has shown that he is overly competent to lead the team and give guidance while the other senior players are also available to give the necessary support.
'Ghana football has given me a lot and for that I am grateful to the people of my country for giving me the noble opportunity to represent them.
'The people of Africa have in diverse ways supported Ghana during my period of playing for my country and to them also I am grateful.
'It is now time for me to concentrate on my club career but I am available in any capacity to help my country if my country needs my experience and knowledge.
'The future of Ghana football is bright and I know that even without me the Black Stars will continue to flourish," Appiah told the press.
Ghana had been blessed by many talented players in the past including three-time African Player of the Year Abedi Pele and former Germany Bundesliga top scorer Anthony Yeboah but they could not lead to country to the World Cup.
Stephen Appiah was part of the technical team of the Black Stars during Ghana's humiliating World Cup campaign in Brazil.
We’ll no longer tolerate your empty, unwarranted attacks – TUC blasts Prof Adei
Bawumia donates GHc200,000 to support Madina fire victims
IMF to disburse US$360million third tranche to Ghana without creditors MoU
Truck owner share insights into train collision incident
Paramount chief of Bassare Traditional Area passes on
Two teachers in court over alleged illegal possession of BECE papers
Sunyani: Victim allegedly shot by traditional warriors appeals for justice
Mahama vows to scrap teacher licensure exams, review Free SHS policy
Government will replace burnt Madina shops with a new three-story, 120-store fac...
