Augustine Arhinful has expressed optimism about Mohammed Kudus replicating his impressive Premier League form for Ghana in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Kudus, making a significant impact at West Ham, is considered a key player for Ghana in the AFCON, where they are grouped with Egypt, Mozambique, and Cape Verde.
Arhinful, a former Ghana international, emphasised Kudus’s value despite a challenging start at West Ham, highlighting his ability to prove himself to the team over time.
The 2023 AFCON is set to kick off in January 2024.
“I’m not surprised at all [at his recent performances] because when he first went to West Ham, we kept complaining about why the coach was not using him. The coach, who works with the team day in and day out, knew what he was doing,” Arhinful explained.
Having missed the chance to participate in his debut Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Ghana in Cameroon due to injury during his Ajax days, Augustine Arhinful expresses hope that Mohammed Kudus will maintain his current form and fitness.
Arhinful emphasises the significance of Kudus playing in his first AFCON tournament for Ghana, and as the upcoming competition approaches in Ivory Coast, he wishes for the young player’s continued excellence and physical well-being.
“I think since the time he was integrated into the team, we have seen his performance keep going up. We should just hope that he doesn’t get himself injured,” Arhinful said.
He added, “He playing well will also affect our national team positively, so we should continue to guide him, advise him, and hope for the best for him.”