Otto Addo Praises Jordan Ayew

Otto Addo believes that despite Jordan Ayew’s recent goal scoring streak for the Black Stars, the Crystal Palace forward contributes much more than just goals.

The 32-year-old added to his tally with a hat-trick on Monday night, helping Ghana secure a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Central African Republic (CAR) in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

This hat-trick brought his total goals for Ghana to 27, making him the top scorer under Otto Addo, who was overseeing only his second competitive match as Ghana’s head coach.

Commenting on Ayew’s performance after the game, Otto Addo praised the striker’s versatility and explained why he is often deployed in various positions.

According to him, Ayew is capable of more than scoring and shouldn’t be judged on just his goals.

“I know that strikers are always judged by goals but he is a striker who can work defensively, and tactically very intelligent.”

“That’s is why sometimes you can use him as a winger because he closes everything down, he works hard and people don’t see this often.”

“He had good games but I read people say he didn’t score, he didn’t play well but for me, he plays well because defensive aspect is so important in football and if he’s doing all this and nobody sees it, is a shame.”

“But I’m happy for him, he plays number 9 because he can hold the ball, he has a good finish and has nous for goals.”

I play out of position – Jordan Ayew

Meanwhile, Jordan Ayew disclosed after the game that he has frequently been played out of his preferred position for both club and country but has never complained because he enjoys it.

“I’ve been playing out of position for quite some time in the national team and also at the club level. But I have always done my duty, put my country first, and never complained because I always give my all.”

While Ayew acknowledges his preference for the number 9 role, he understands the importance of utilising his versatility in different positions on the field.

“It’s difficult. It’s not something that I like to talk about, but obviously, my favourite position right from the academy, France, in the national team has always been as a number 9. But I understand because I have qualities that allow me to play in the pockets of spaces, and I don’t complain,” he added.

Jordan Ayew’s hat-trick, along with a goal from Fatawu Issahaku, boosted Ghana to the top of Group I after four games. The four-time African champions now await the results of other matches to confirm their standing, with six games remaining in the qualification series.