Thomas Partey dropped as Ghana coach Chris Hughton names final AFCON 2023 squad

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has been dropped from Ghana's squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

The 30-year-old, who is recovering from an injury he sustained in October last year, failed to return to full fitness for the tournament.

The absence of the ex-Atletico Madrid star is a huge blow for the four-time African champions.

However, Chris Hughton will count on the experience of captain Andre Ayew and the in-form West Ham United attacker Mohammed Kudus.

Returning to the squad is AS Monaco centre-back Mohammed Salisu as well as Alexander Djiku of Fenerbache.

Hughton also included three home-based players in the team. Asante Kotoko midfielder Richmond Lamptey and Medeama duo Fatawu Hamidu and Jonathan Sowah will travel with the squad to Ivory Coast.

Defender Baba Rahman and Fatawu Issahaku of Leicester City opted out of the team for various reasons.

Ghana have been drawn in Group B alongside seven-time champions Egypt, Cape Verde and Mozambique.