Akwesi Appiah Reveals Why Christian Atsu Never Played For The Black Stars In 2019

Former Black Stars Coach, James Akwesi Appiah has revealed what could have been the reason behind Christian Atsu’s long absence from the Black Stars before his untimely demise.

Christian Atsu was found dead under the rubble in Turkey several days after the earthquake disaster who has claimed several lives, particularly in the city of Hataya.

Aged 31, the body of the former Chelsea winger was brought home on Sunday evening, following the confirmation of his death in the early hours of Saturday.

Speaking exclusively to Spice 91.9 FM in Sekondi-Takoradi, Coach Akwesi Appiah, who first introduced Atsu to the Black Stars in 2012 explained what could have accounted for the former player’s noninvolvement in the national team since 2019.

“After the AFCON in 2019, I paid him a visit at his home in Newcastle. We had a conversation and he asked me to remember him in my prayers. He was scheduled to have surgery which could prevent him from playing if unsuccessful.” The former Black Stars coach told Spice Sports.

“After the Surgery, he did not regain enough strength in the leg as he had wanted. He dipped in form and had to leave Newcastle United at the time, all those accounted for his absence in the Black Stars.” He added.

During that period, the late Atsu needed to concentrate on his club football which he made known to the then coach, CK Akunnor.