Ghana's Alexander Djiku Ruled Out of World Cup, Derrick Luckassen Called Up as Replacement
The seasoned Spartak Moscow centre-half arrived at the Black Stars' training base in Cardiff over the weekend nursing an injury picked up during Spartak Moscow's Russian Cup final against FC Krasnodar.
After comprehensive medical assessments, it has been determined that he will not recover in time to feature in the tournament in North America.
During a pre-match press conference ahead of the friendly against Wales, Queiroz expressed optimism that Djiku would be fit.
"I was quite hopeful that the news regarding Djiku's injury would be encouraging, but football occasionally presents surprises and we had to take the decision to replace him. It does not matter which player I brought in, Djiku was replaced.
"Now we have the same group of centre-backs in camp. The names are familiar to you; you saw them on the pitch today. So we are prepared to get going," he added.
Pafos centre-half Derrick Luckassen has been brought in to take his place. The 30-year-old Pafos FC defender is well acquainted with the Black Stars setup, having committed his international allegiance to Ghana and taken part in the March friendlies against Austria and Germany.
Luckassen had an impressive season with Cypriot giants Pafos, playing a crucial part in their domestic and European campaigns. He made eight appearances in the UEFA Champions League this season and scored one goal.
A graduate of AZ Alkmaar's academy who has represented PSV, Hertha Berlin and Anderlecht among others, Luckassen offers a wealth of European know-how.
His prior experience with the Ghana setup, though limited, makes him a practical and logical choice at a time when the squad can least afford further upheaval.
Djiku's departure adds to what has become a deeply worrying injury situation for Ghana heading into the World Cup.
Mohammed Kudus was ruled out months ago after experiencing a fresh quad issue that required surgery. Mohammed Salisu has also been confirmed as absent due to injury after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament.
The losses of Kudus, Salisu and now Djiku represent a significant blow to the quality and experience available to a squad preparing to face England, Panama and Croatia in Group L.
With the final 26-man World Cup squad to be announced on June 1 and the Wales friendly taking place on June 2, Queiroz's preparations are entering their final and most critical stage.
Luckassen's inclusion ensures that the defensive choices remain sufficient, and the Portuguese manager will now focus on integrating him smoothly into the group ahead of Ghana's opening match against Panama in Toronto on June 17.