The Fulham and Black Stars defender says it will be difficult to beat Mali in the joint World and Nations Cup qualifier next month without skipper Stephen Appiah. The skipper pulled out of the game citing personal reasons, but Joy Sports checks indicate the decision is in reaction to criticisms that he is inactive. But for call-ups for national duties, Appiah has not played competitive football for nearly two years, having been sidelined for injuries. His failure to sign for Tottenham and a Russian side has not helped matters either. Paintsil in an interview with Joy Sports said Appiah’s absence is a big blow to the team. “It is going to be difficult without Appiah. If there is anything to bring him back that will be better." The Stars play Mali on June 7 in Bamako and will play as guests of Sudan two weeks later in two crucial qualifiers. As part of preparations towards the games the Black Stars played Division Two side King Solomom FC in a pulsating 2-2 game at the Elwak Sports Stadium. Opoku Agyemang and Bernard Yao Kumordzi scored for the Stars. Story by Nathan Gadugah/Myjoyonline.com