Ghanaian Journalist Reiterates Stance Against “World Cup Only” Black Stars Players
Black Stars Eddie Nketiah : Prominent sports journalist Saddick Adams is forcefully restating his long-standing opposition to the sudden influx of foreign-based players seeking to represent the Ghana Black Stars only during major tournaments.
He argues that this practice undermines the team’s integrity and cohesion. Adams firmly believes that a national team spot should be a reward for commitment, not just convenience.
To substantiate his position, Adams frequently cites historical examples. For instance, he publicly opposed the high-profile call-up of Kevin-Prince Boateng in the past. Furthermore, he has consistently voiced his disapproval regarding similar situations, such as the recent case of Athletic Bilbao striker Iñaki Williams, who declared for Ghana just before the 2022 World Cup.
Recently, however, some critics have accused Adams of hypocrisy regarding his reporting on Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah. These critics suggest he is now pushing for Nketiah’s inclusion. Adams directly refutes this claim, providing crucial context to clarify his stance.
In fact, Adams reminds the public that he first broke the story of Nketiah’s unwillingness to play for Ghana back in 2019 when Kwasi Appiah coached the team. Therefore, his current reporting on the player’s potential interest ahead of the 2026 World Cup is simply a continuation of that same journalistic narrative. He asserts he is reporting the facts, not advocating for an agenda.
Consequently, Adams presents a clear and demanding criterion for any player wishing to wear the national jersey. He emphatically states that if Eddie Nketiah truly wants to play for the Black Stars, he should have been willing to prove his commitment during the arduous qualifying campaign. This means playing in challenging venues like the stadiums in Antananarivo, Madagascar, or Mozambique.
Ultimately, Adams’s core principle is that players must earn their place through shared struggle. He points to the numerous other players who dedicated themselves in less glamorous conditions, such as at the Azingele Stadium, in Cape Verde, and at the Setsoto and Blantyre National Stadiums.
For Saddick Adams, a Black Stars shirt is not a prize for talent alone, but a symbol of unwavering loyalty and earned respect.
