Ghana's midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah (R) is marked by Cameroon's forward Christian Bassogog during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) Group F football match between Cameroon and Ghana at the Ismailia Stadium on June 29, 2019. (Photo by OZAN KOSE / AFP via Getty Images)

'I prefer playing as a playmaker' – Kwadwo Asamoah reveals his natural role

· GhanaSoccernet

Former Ghana international Kwadwo Asamoah has confessed that he never truly enjoyed playing as a left-back for the Black Stars, insisting his heart always belonged in the middle of the pitch.

Speaking to Citi Sports, the former Juventus star made it clear that being deployed in defence was a sacrifice he made for the team.

"I prefer playing as a playmaker; that's my natural role," Asamoah said, reflecting on the tactical shifts that shaped his international career.

Despite struggling with the transition to left-back, he accepted the role out of respect for then-head coach Kwesi Appiah. "I didn't enjoy left-back, but I respected Kwesi Appiah," he added.

That sacrifice, however, led to one of Ghana's most memorable World Cup moments. Asamoah delivered a stunning outside-of-the-foot cross to assist Asamoah Gyan's goal against Portugal at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

While fans often felt his creative talents were wasted in defence, Asamoah put the team first. His willingness to adapt for the national team remains a defining feature of his career.