Kenneth Sarpong, former Ghana and Hearts of Oak midfielder, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the recent exclusion of Andre Ayew from the Black Stars, expressing that a committed player like Ayew deserves more respect.

Ayew, who last appeared for the Black Stars in June, has missed recent matches in both the 2026 World Cup and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, including a recent double-header against Sudan.

In those matches, Ghana managed a 0-0 draw in Accra, followed by a 2-0 loss at the Benina Martyrs Stadium in Libya.

The results have left the Black Stars on the brink of failing to qualify for the AFCON tournament for the first time since 2004.

In an interview with Kessben FM, Sarpong highlighted Ayew’s value to the team, both as a leader and as a motivator.

“A patriotic player like Andre Ayew does not deserve bad treatment,” Sarpong said. “His presence in the team would provide extra motivation, and he knows how to inspire players when things get tough. It would be better to have him back in the squad.”

With Ayew now active again following his recent move to Le Havre, he remains hopeful of a return to the national team.

The Black Stars will resume their campaign in November, facing Niger and Angola in their final AFCON 2025 qualifying matches.