Ghanaian International Tariq Lamptey earns England U-21 call-up
With Ghana pushing to lure Tariq Lamptey to the Black Stars, England has become an obstacle for the African nation’s breakthrough. England has handed the Brighton defender another call-up at U-21 level which brightens Lamptey’s Three Lions prospect.
The Ghanaian International earned the England youth call-up in moment Ghana has been pushing hard for a Black Stars invitation than ever to secure the 21-year old. The 4-time AFCON champions were reportedly confident of given him a call-up in their upcoming World Cup playoff against Nigeria.
He has been called up for this month’s two EURO qualifiers against Albania and Andorra.
The latest call-up marks a return to England national team levels having been out for a long period because of injury problems.
Lamptey is expected to honour the invitation as he sees it as an opportunity to impress Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate who keeps an eye on U-21 games.
The Ghanaian’s mind appears to be made up as he wants to play for England despite attempts by the Ghana Football Association to get him to play for the Black Stars.
Lamptey was born in Hillingdon to Ghanaian parents who refuse to influence their son’s decision regarding his international allegiance.
The former Chelsea defender is definitely a long-term target for England but Ghana remain optimistic. In Ghana, they believe that securing qualification to the World Cup in Qatar can be used to lure Lamptey.
He may not make England’s squad for the tournament but should he avail himself for Ghana when qualification is secured, there is a greater possibility that he would be invited.
Brighton manager Graham Potter recently hailed the youngster, saying he makes life easy for him.
“It’s about using his attributes as well as we can based on the game we want to play,” Potter explained. “Sometimes we have used him high up and sometimes he’s one of the highest up the pitch – I think of the Chelsea game where we’ve used him as a wing-back that’s very pushed on and attacking the backline.
“Ultimately Tariq needs to be doing that, threatening the opposition defenders as much as he can. Sometimes he can do that from right-back or right wing-back or a little bit higher.
“But the fact that he’s so open-minded and so ready to help the team makes it easy for me. It’s about finding the right solution for him.”
Lamptey has made 20 Premier League appearances so far this season despite starting the campaign with a hamstring injury.
He made his first appearance in the 8th week. Lamptey has played for England at U-18, 19, 20 levels before securing U-21 this time. His progression could mean the next few call-ups could earn him at Three Lions camp which finally dent Black Stars hopes.
Lamptey has stood out this term with his adaptability and willingness to play in different positions being a real positive for Potter this.
He has been utilised in every position on the right flank, with his blistering pace getting Albion supporters off their seats.
