Head coach of the Black Starlets, Prosper Narteh Ogum, has outlined his approach to squad selection as the team intensifies preparations for their upcoming CAF U-17 assignment.
The Starlets are currently engaged in a series of friendly matches aimed at fine-tuning the squad ahead of the continental competition. According to Ogum, these test games are not merely for results but serve as a critical evaluation platform to determine which players will make the final cut.
The coach emphasized that decisions will be based on consistent performance rather than isolated displays, ensuring that every player remains competitive and motivated throughout the selection process.
“What we are going to do is as and when we play these matches we will put these players to test. Those we think we need to let them go we will let them go. Those we think we will let them stay we will let them stay so it is not going to be a one-off thing,” he said, as aired by Peace FM.
Ogum explained that a gradual selection process keeps players fully committed, knowing that places in the squad are not guaranteed.
“When it is one-off it will tell the other players nobody is coming in and in terms of energy, impact and what have you, they wouldn’t give their best. But if you know today two people are gone, next week two are gone, you will never know when it is your turn.”
He added that communication remains central to the process, assuring that players receive individual feedback regarding their progress and status.
“The good thing here is that we give them feedback, individual feedback.”
The Black Starlets continue their build-up with the aim of assembling a competitive and disciplined squad capable of making a strong impression at the tournament.