Ghana coach CK Akonnor has explained the reason behind his decision to select Nordsjaelland forward Kamal Deen Sulemana in his squad for the upcoming friendly against Mali.

The four time African champions will face off with the Eagles on October 9, in Antalyar, Turkey as part of the team’s preparations for the AFCON qualifier against Sudan.

The 18 year old is among five debutants named in the 23-man squad announced on Friday.

Kamal Deen has made two appearances and provided an assist in the Danish top-flight this season.

“Good player, young and I think he needs patience and time. I think we need to start developing and looking at the next 4 or 5 years, these are the guys and once we are able to start with people like that, we will be motivating them slowly” Akonnor told Ghana FA TV.

“We are not going to push them too much but slowly develop them into the team. He reminds me of Jeremy Doku but unfortunately, he is gone for Belgium.

“He has that kind of style and ability to play like him and I think it is necessary to bring him to have a look at him and also to be around the team to see the likes of Dede Ayew the captain, Jordan Ayew and others who will help him to be a better player in the National team.