How Black Stars could line up vs Ethiopia

In the absence of first-choice Richard Ofori, Swindon Town goalkeeper Wollacott beat Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Richard Attah to man the post against Zimbabwe last month. The situation is unlikely to change despite the return of KAS Eupen No.1 Abdul Manaf Nurudeen after he missed the last round of internationals due to injury.

The Reading man missed the October internationals due to injury, but now back in the Black Stars set-up, he is expected to reclaim the No.2 spot from Daniel Aamrtey, who deputised in his absence.

The Reading left-back is expected to continue his reign as Ghana's No.3 against Ethiopia, particularly in the absence of regular competitor Gideon Mensah, who is out this time around due to injury.

With USA-based Jonathan Mensah unable to honour his call-up due to injury and Strasbourg ace Alexander Djiku suspended, Celta Vigo man Aidoo is expected to come into the Ghana starting XI at centre-back on Thursday.

The Leicester City man is expected to return to the heart of the Black Stars' defence against Ethiopia, having featured at right-back in the last two matches due to Yiadom's absence.

The Real Mallorca player was a game changer against Zimbabwe in Cape Coast last month and followed up with another fine performance in the following game away. He is tipped to keep his place as No.6 against Ethiopia, particularly in Thomas Partey's absence.

Amid concerns about his match-fitness, China-based Wakaso could return to Ghana's midfield as replacement for injured Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey.

The Ajax playmaker is tipped to play just in front of a deeper two in midfield but Partey's absence could see him redeployed from No.10 to No.8 against the Walias.

In what is a must-win encounter, the Al Sadd forward is likely to be deployed at right wing ahead of wunderkid Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, who may well come in as No.10 should Kudus move to a deeper role.

The Stade Rennes man is all but a sure bet to start on Ghana's left-wing on the back of some fine form at club level.

With Jordan Ayew continuing to struggle in front of goal, returning Israel-based Boakye could start as the Black Stars' lead striker on Thursday.