Ghana's Asamoah Gyan celebrates his goal during their African Cup of Nations Group D soccer match against Mali at the Stade de Franceville in Franceville, Gabon, Saturday Jan. 28, 2012.

Ex-Ghana international Kim Grant has lashed out at the Black Stars players for demanding $15,000 as winning bonuses at next year’s African Cup of Nations.

The players demanded the amount as their match winning bonuses per game to motivate them to end a 31-year drought for an African crown.

But the intended financial package was met with an intense public outcry, with critics questioning the rationale behind the decision of the players to demand such an astronomical figure.

But the former Black Stars striker who earned seven caps and scored one goal has criticized the move and questioned their sense of nationalism.

“I am afraid but I don’t think the way we’re going about this bonus issue is the right way,” Grant said

“During the few times that I had the chance to wear the national jersey, it was with some sense of pride and joy.

“I don’t think players should be demanding such figures and throw away their sense of joy in playing for the national team.

“I am not sure anyone has said they should not be paid, but when the amount involved is too huge, then it raises a lot of questions about the players’ commitments.

“I sincerely believe that the sense of serving a nation and wearing those colours surpass everything.

“They should just be moderate and try to die a little to help the nation win the title.”

The players went on the defensive claiming hefty bonuses were simply a part of modern football, as well as taken into cognizance the huge wages that they are being paid at their respective clubs.

The financial incentive for Ghana’s stars is believed to be the most generous on offer to all the team competing at next month’s tournament in South Africa.