Despite acknowledging Andre Ayew has contributed a lot to the Black Stars, Ghana's all-time top scorer, Asamoah Gyan, says the captain has to accept the team needs a change of direction.

Ayew was left out of Ghana's 26-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and Central African Republic as announced on Wednesday by head coach Otto Addo.

The 34-year-old made the list for the games against Nigeria and Uganda in March but was snubbed for the two games next month.

The decision to leave him out has received mixed reactions. However, Gyan believes it has come at the right time as there is a need to move on.

"For me, Andre has done so much for Ghana. He started way back in 2007 and he has been consistent in the national team. He is the most capped player," he acknowledged.

"I think the coach has made his decision. Personally, I played with Andre and he has done everything for Ghana but this is the situation whereby we have to move on. The coach has made his decision."

Ayew enjoyed a good season in France on his return as he scored five goals in 19 appearances for Le Havre, helping them to survive relegation.