Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton has explained the rationale behind Antoine Semenyo and Abdul Salis Samed's absence in the game against Namibia.

The duo missed the Black Stars pre-Africa Cup of Nations friendly at the Baba Yara Stadium on Monday, January 8.

Hughton's side put up yet another unconvincing performance as they played out a goalless stalemate raising concerns about the team's readiness for the 2023 AFCON.

The Irish trainer explained the absence of the two players hinting they were not fit for the fixture.

"[Antoine] Semenyo was ill yesterday and couldn’t train, that’s why he missed today’s game. Salis [Abdul Samed] picked up a knock yesterday [in training]," he said after the game.

The gaffer also addressed the situation surrounding Mohammed Kudus who is yet to join the team's camp in Kumasi.

Joy Sports understands the West Ham United midfielder has been in Accra in the last few days as he continues his recovery from a strain he suffered in the last game he featured for the Hammers.

"As for [Mohammed] Kudus, we were in touch with him and his club, will join us tomorrow," Hughton added.

The Black Stars are expected to leave Ghana for Ivory Coast on Wednesday, January 10, ahead of the first group game against Cape Verde on January 14.