Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has opened up on the decision to hand Derrick Luckassen a late call-up to Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad following the injury setback suffered by Alexander Djiku.
The experienced Portuguese tactician admitted losing Djiku was a major disappointment but expressed confidence that Luckassen is capable of stepping up and making a positive impact at the tournament.
Djiku was forced out of Ghana’s World Cup plans after sustaining an injury during the Turkish Cup final, prompting the technical team to look for a replacement ahead of the tournament in North America.
Luckassen, who plays for Pafos FC, was subsequently drafted into the squad and has now secured a place in the final team for the World Cup.
Speaking about the situation, Queiroz described Djiku’s absence as a significant loss for the Black Stars.
“It’s one of those moments we don’t like. Djiku got injured during the Cup Final. It was a very difficult decision. We’ll miss him — he’s a great guy, a great professional,” Queiroz said.
The Ghana coach revealed that despite not working directly with Djiku for an extended period, he took time to study the defender and gather information about his qualities and character.
“I didn’t work with him directly, but I spent hours watching videos and speaking with people around him,” he added.
With the World Cup fast approaching, Queiroz stressed that the team must now focus on the players available and trust those selected to deliver when called upon.
“But that’s football. We have to move forward and show full trust in the players we have,” he stated.
The former Iran manager also explained that Luckassen’s selection was not a rushed decision, insisting the defender had always been part of the wider plans and was ready to answer the call when needed.
“The replacement was based on observation. We don’t work with just 11 or 22 players. You can win games with 22, but to be champions you need a full squad ready,” Queiroz explained.
“When we knew about the injury, we went to our list. Luckassen was ready. I know he’ll be committed, dedicated, and will perform fantastically for the national team.”
Luckassen now has the opportunity to cement his place in the squad as Ghana continue preparations for the tournament, beginning with Tuesday’s international friendly against Wales in Cardiff.
The Black Stars will head to the World Cup hoping to make a strong impression in Group L, where they will face Panama, England and Croatia in the group stage.