Black Stars player John Paintsil has shared his opinion over the concerns of the left and right full back in the Black Stars saying he sees no problem with our lateral defence. Many have raised concerns over the left and right full back positions in the Black Stars – believing it remains the biggest headache for coaches who have handled the side in recent times.

Several players have been tried in these positions with most of them failing to meet the huge expectations of the ever demanding Ghanaian soccer fan. But Paintsil who has been a member of the Black Stars team for over ten years refuses to see these positions as the team’s weakest links. The experienced right-back says it is always difficult for the fans to appreciate the enormous work put in by players on the field of play because of their privileged position as spectators and not as players.

“I don’t think there is a problem with our lateral defence,” he told Radio Gold. I know Ghanaians are even better coaches than we the players but I tell you it is not easy. Watching on TV is entirely different from playing and I believe the boys there are really doing well. It is not easy but they are doing well.”

Ghana coach Akwasi Appiah has a difficult task in getting crack players to fill the perceived weak links in the Black Stars ahead of next month’s crunch 2014 World Cup playoff against Egypt. The Black Stars are likely to be without Harrison Afful whose availability for the match remains in doubt due to accumulated yellow cards.