FC Metz manager Frédéric Antonetti has revealed he won’t be releasing Ghana defender John Boye for the upcoming Nations Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Sao Tome
John Boye, who is captain of the Ligue 1 outfit, has become an integral member of Antonetti’s squad this season as they continue their chase for an European spot.
Metz face a tough task after the international break, with a double clash against giants AS Monaco in the Ligue One and the Coupe de France.
With clubs giving the power to deny players from leaving for international assignments during the pandemic, coach Antonetti has decided to use that to prevent his internationals from leaving.
“We announced to the players concerned that they would not be released. I have ten selectable players – all Africans: Oukidja, Boulaya (Algeria), Bronn (Tunisia), Boye (Ghana), Kouyaté, Mamadou Fofana (Mali), Maïga, Angband (Ivory Coast), Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal), Vagner (Cape Verde) – including 8 holders,” he said in a phone interview.
“I am not masochistic! I can’t do without it for the 2 matches in Monaco in Ligue 1 then in the round of 16 of the Coupe de France on. A very smart decision has been made in South America(consisting of postponing scheduled qualifying matches). Africa and Asia should be inspired by it,” he added.
FC Metz is enjoying a decent captain under the leadership of the Ghanaian, with the club lying seventh on the Ligue 1 table and have also reached the round of 16 of the Coupe De France.
Source: Ghanasoccernet
