Former Black Stars defender Sam Johnson has criticised Black Stars players who refuse to show commitment when called up for international duty.

The senior men's national team the Black Stars failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in twenty years.

Following this setback many ex-players and stakeholders have had their say on the abysmal performance of the Black Stars team and have questioned the players' dedication and commitment.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Johnson acknowledged the Black Stars can perform well but don’t show it.

“For me personally I know what they can do, but they don’t do it. They don’t do what we know they do best. They don’t show it to us when they come here," he said.

“And what kills me is that when people are saying when they get injured who is going to take care of them.”

Johnson was furious about players who refused to show commitment and urged them to stay away from the national team.

“Excuse me, but that is nonsense. This is your job and that is what you choose to do," he fumed.

"You either do it or you leave it. So if you know you will come and you will get injured and Ghana won’t take care of you then resign from the national team or don’t come at all’’ he explained.

“Don’t come and use our hearts to play. If you are to play, play. If you know you will get injured and Ghana will not take care of you or what Ghana will give you is not enough, stay and take your big money nobody will fight you.”

"And allow those who want to play to play," he said.

The Black Stars will assemble in March to prepare for the World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar on 17th March and 24th March 2025.