'I didn't deserve it' - Baba Rahman on controversial AFCON 2021Q callup

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Ghana international Baba Rahman has offered a candid reflection on his much-debated call-up for the 2020 AFCON qualifier against Sudan , a decision that stirred significant public backlash at the time.

Rahman, who had just returned from a lengthy knee injury and was playing with Chelsea’s U-23 side, was surprisingly named in the Black Stars squad by then-head coach C.K Akonnor.

The move was met with heavy criticism, with many questioning his fitness and match readiness.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Joy Sports, Rahman admitted he initially turned down the invitation.

“I honestly didn’t feel I deserved the call-up at the time, so I initially rejected it,” he said.

“But the GFA and Coach CK Akonnor explained that they were short on left-backs and needed someone with my experience. That’s why I eventually accepted.”

Despite the public uproar, Akonnor stood by his decision, emphasizing the need for experience in the squad.

He was, however, relieved of his duties months later following a poor start to Ghana's 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign.

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