Ghana XI to face Nigeria: Afena-Gyan and Jordan Ayew start in World Cup qualifier

Despite the return of Orlando Pirates’ Richard Ofori to the Black Stars, Swindon Town goalkeeper Joseph Wollacott keeps his place as Ghana’s No.1 for Friday’s showdown with Nigeria.

Former Belgium and Fulham right-back Odoi is one of two surprise faces in Ghana’s line-up, having been named to play at right-back ahead of Reading's Andy Yiadom.

Bordeaux left-back Gideon Mensah will start in the position for the Black Stars against the Super Eagles, getting the nod ahead of Israel-based Montari Kamaheni and Hearts of Oak defender Dennis Korsah.

The Leicester City defender starts in the heart of defence for the Black Stars, with a possible match-up with Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen on the cards.

The France-born partnered Amartey at Afcon in Cameroon, and despite the team’s poor performance at the tournament, his position in the Black Stars is still intact.

Real Mallorca star Baba has been handed the responsibility of providing defensive cover in midfield.

Arsenal ace Partey is set to captain the Black Stars against the Super Eagles in the absence of Andre Ayew who is suspended for the double-header.

Back in Black Stars after missing the Afcon tournament, the Ajax playmaker is set to take up the most offensive duty in a midfield trio alongside Partey and Baba.

The new Sporting Club signing keeps his place as Ghana’s right winger, continuing from the Black Stars’ final Afcon game against Comoros.

Despite joining the Black Stars only for their final training session on Thursday, the Crystal Palace man has found a place in Otto Addo’s first XI.

On his first time in the Ghana set-up, Roma teenager Afena-Gyan has been handed a surprise start for what will be his debut for the Black Stars.