Essien moves to defense

The Chelsea man, who has played as a centreback at various stages of both his club and international career, will partner Eric Addo with captain John Mensah missing.

LeRoy had toyed with playing Shilla Illiasu but decided to play the Russia-based defender in his first game after a two-month lay-off will be too much of a risk to take against a Samuel Eto’o-led Cameroon.

The absence of Essien in midfield has also led to some re-organization, from what KickOffGhana.com gathers.

Sulley Muntari will partner Anthony Annan in central midfield, with Laryea Kingston taking his place on the right and Haminu Dramani on the left. Quincy Owusu-Abeyie and Junior Agogo will play in attack.

LeRoy has had to start Asamoah Gyan from the bench with the striker suffering from what the Frenchman calls a “small groin problem”.

Ghana last played Cameroon at the Ohene Djan Stadium in the opening game of the 2000 Nations Cup. It ended in a 1-1 draw.