Former Ghana international Derek Boateng has opposed calls to hand call-ups to diaspora players Callum Hudson-Odoi and Eddie Nketiah for the 2026 World Cup.

The England-based duo have been the subject of conversation since the Black Stars secured qualification for next year’s global showpiece.

However, both did not feature in the qualifiers nor make their intentions clear about switching allegiance after attempts by the FA over the years.

"They should not be called. I don't think it is fair,” Derek told Sporty FM.

"I quite remember when I was with the national team, we went to Congo to play qualification, Kelvin [Prince Boateng] was invited but he did not show up.

"We played England next and he came to the hotel, we made sure he was out of the squad.

"Football is a teamwork and bringing them will create a lot of chaos and trouble in the national team. Players have friends in the national team.”

Nketiah, who has made only one appearance for England’s senior side, has scored four goals for Crystal Palace in all competitions this season.

Hudson-Odoi has three caps for England and has netted thrice for Nottingham Forest this term.

Meanwhile, the Black Stars will face Panama in their Group L opener before subsequent matches against England and Croatia.

Derek said the Black Stars are capable of taking on the Three Lions and the Vatreni but are wary of Panama, who are making only their second appearance at the tournament.

"England is not tough for us. England is afraid of us. The team we have to look at more is Panama and I feel like we have to make sure we win that game."