Former Black Stars management committee member Ernest Thompson has defended the importance of such committees in managing Ghana’s senior men's national team, following the Ghana Football Association's (GFA) announcement last week to disband the committee.

Thompson cited a pivotal intervention by the management committee during a past conflict between Black Stars coach Kwasi Appiah and key players like Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, and Mubarak Wakaso as an example of the committee’s relevance.

He recalled a situation where Appiah wanted to drop the players, but the management committee intervened to help resolve the issue.

“Kwasi Appiah had problems with Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, and Wakaso. You remember that incident. He wanted to drop them.

He said he had dropped them. I’m telling you the truth now,” Thompson said in an interview with Joy Sports.

He explained how the committee persuaded Appiah to involve Abedi Pele, the father of the Ayew brothers and a revered icon in Ghanaian football, in the discussions.

The committee suggested that Appiah speak directly to Abedi Pele to resolve the situation, which eventually led to the players’ return to the team, where they went on to help save the squad.

Thompson emphasized that management committees play a crucial role, especially when they work within their defined responsibilities.

He praised the committee’s work, citing their contribution to managing team dynamics and resolving potential conflicts that could impact the team's performance.

The disbandment of the Black Stars management committee comes after Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

However, reports indicate that the GFA is planning to reconstitute the committee in the coming days.