Ghana coach CK Akonnor has handed Azam FC defender Yakubu Mohammed his first call up into the Black Stars ahead of the friendly with Mali next month.

The former Aduana Stars defender joined Azam FC three seasons ago and has been a key part of the giants in the Tanzanian Premier League.

Nicknamed ‘The Buffalo’ the former Aduana Stars defender’s combative approach has made him one of the best defenders in the Tanzanian league, which is drawing interest from rival clubs.

Azam FC signed the defensive pillar in December 2016 and media reports in the East African country have credited him for the team’s good performances.

Mohammed, who was the best defender in the 2015 GHALCA G6 after his stellar performance in the competition, caught the eyes of many football clubs who were then chasing after his signature.

The 24-year-old former Ghana U20 star three-year contract expired after the 2018/2019 season.

Yakubu is one of the six players who have been handed their maiden call ups by manager Charles Akonnor.