Richmond Lamptey, the dynamic midfielder from Asante Kotoko, shares the exhilarating moment he received the call to join the Black Stars squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Lamptey's exceptional skills displayed during the ongoing 2023/24 Ghana Premier League season have rightfully earned him a place among the three selected players from the domestic league to represent Ghana on the continental stage.

As the countdown begins for Ghana's opening clash against Cape Verde on Sunday at 8:00 pm, Lamptey's journey to the national team adds excitement and anticipation to the team's preparations.

Reflecting on the unexpected call, Lamptey stated, "Although I have worked hard, I never thought of being called to the Black Stars. I was in the room, and I saw that a new number had called me.

So I called back, and I heard the voice of coach Didi Dramani. He told me that I hadn't seen his missed call, and I told him he should forgive me; I have changed my phone."

"Then he told me to prepare this week; that's all he said to me. So the next morning, he called again and asked if I had prepared, and I said yes.

He said team manager Ameenu would call me and discuss everything with me. So the next morning, and coach Chris called me. Wow, I was excited, very excited. It was like a dream come true."

"I said God has done it. I will also thank the media; they didn't leave; they fought for me. I thank everybody who fought for me. I will not disappoint you."

As Ghana enters the 34th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, Lamptey's inclusion adds a layer of promise and enthusiasm to the team's aspirations and historical legacy.