Jerry Akaminko to fight for Black Stars place for 2013 AFCON

Defender Jerry Akaminko says he is determined more than ever to win a place in the final Ghana squad for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 24-year-old is one of six central defenders vying for a place in coach Akwasi Appiah’s 26-man provisional squad for the tournament being hosted in South Africa.

Akaminko who plays his club football in Turkey with Eskisehirspor is yet to win the Ghanaian fans over with an overwhelming performance in a Black Stars shirt.

But the ex Heart of Lions defender is ready to face the stiff competition to land a place in the side for the AFCON during the intensive training camp in Abu Dhabi.

“To be selected amongst a wide range of possible is very great,” he told Angel FM.

“I believe I was not selected just to add up to the numbers and therefore my determination to make it.

“I am going to the training camp to do my best and ensure I make the final team to South Africa.”

The Black Stars will play Egypt and Tunisia in friendly matches during the training camp in Abu Dhabi.

The final squad will however be named in between the two warm-up games ahead of the CAF deadline of 10 clear days before the start of the competition.

Ghana is drawn in Group B that will be based in Port Elizabeth alongside Mali, Niger and DR Congo.