Concerns loom over Ghana as injury-hit Alexander Djiku likely to miss their World Cup Qualifier clash against Mali

Alexander Djiku injury: The defender hasn’t been able to report to Ghana’s camp for the clash against Mali

Ghana’s defender, Alexander Djiku wasn’t able to report to his country’s first team camp ahead of their World Cup qualifier match against Mali. Reportedly, the player suffered an injury during his club Fenerbahce’s last game of the season. The Super Lig club beat Istanbulspor 6-0 on the final match-day.

The Communications Director of the GFA (Ghana Football Association), Henry Asante Twum reportedly stated – “Alexander Djiku is yet to join the Black Stars due to an injury he picked up in their (Ferenbache’s) final game”. Twum further added – “The club doctors got in touch with the Black Stars technical team and the team doctors and communicated that they would want to observe him for a day or two before he joins the Black Stars camp”.

Ghana has so far witnessed an average start to their FIFA World Cup Qualifier campaign. Placed in Group I, the Black Stars have managed to win one of their first two fixtures, while facing a defeat in the other one. Ghana won their first match against Madagascar. But went on to lose the next fixture against Comoros.

The team management would want their star defender to be fully fit and available for their upcoming clash against Mali. The match is scheduled to be played on June 6. However, they might also be aware of the fact that it’s a long international summer, and pushing a player’s return can bring long-term setbacks. After that Mali match, the Black Stars will be coming up against the Central African Republic just four days later.

Alexander Djiku debuted on the international stage for Ghana in October 2020. The 29-year-old has registered 23 caps for his country at the highest level till now. Apart from his notable defensive contributions, he has also managed to score a single time for Ghana.

The center-back had a productive season for Fenerbahce in the Super Lig. In his 25 appearances for the Turkish club, he started just above 60 percent of the matches. Djiku was able to make his presence felt whenever given a chance. He also registered a tally of five goal contributions (three goals and two assists) during these matches.