The remarkable rise of Petrojet Ghanaian defender Oduro Kwarteng, eyes U20 call-up

Not many raised eyebrows at Petrojet’s decision to extend the deal of high-flying Ghanaian defender Peter Oduro Kwarterng, because he offers technical ability, athleticism and versatility beyond borders.

The 18-year-old has been rewarded with an improved offer after signing a fresh three-year deal which will keep him at the club 2017.

The decision to extend his contract speaks volumes about the quality of his immense talent and tenacity to excel at the highest level.

Oduro Kwarteng has hogged the lines in the Egyptian League over the last two seasons where he has delighted the crowd with his sublime defensive abilities, making him the toast of fans at the Suez-based side.

He has thrived where many Ghanaian players have failed to live up to the billing and continues to put up fascinating performances for the North African side.

But even more significantly, his performance caps a remarkable personal rise for a player who not too long ago, was deemed not too good enough to play for respected Ghanaian giants at Hearts of Oak.

The intelligent centre-back has metamorphosed into a top notch player, commanding regular playing time at the Egyptian outfit and one of the reasons the club has flourished against all odds and continue to make respectable Premier League finishes in recent times.

He continues to flourish for club but has surprisingly not caught the eye of the technical handlers of Ghana’s Under-20 team.

A class act, Oduro is knocking on the doors of the Black Satellites with the 2015 African Youth Championship qualifiers swinging into full mode.

“I am waiting on the wings for an opportunity to play for the Black Satellites,” he said

“I believe my performances are doing the talking for me that’s why people feel I deserve a chance with the national Undr-20 team.

“It’s an honour to represent your country and so I am waiting patiently for my time. I wish can be involved in the second leg against Gabon but that is the decision of the coach.”

The team’s lackluster performance against Gabon in the first leg tie at the Accra sports stadium on Sunday has heightened calls for him to be called up ahead of the return fixture in Libreville.

There are those who feel his leadership abilities will be required at the back ahead of a difficult away tie in two weeks time.

The former King Faisal player is one of the most respected active defenders in the Egyptian top-flight and remains on course for a fruitful career especially with stellar clubs in Europe making enquiries about his availability.

The tough-tackling defender was spotted by celebrated Al Ahly coach Hossam Mohamed El-Badry and made 27 appearances for Petrojet, missing only three games through suspension.