Arsenal legend Ian Wright has praised Tariq Lamptey for his decision to represent Ghana's senior national team at a young age.
Although Lamptey was born in England to Ghanaian parents and played for England's youth national teams, he chose to commit to the Black Stars in September 2022.
Former African football stars have recently voiced concerns about players born abroad who consider their countries of origin as secondary options in international football. This frustration stems from players opting for African nations only when their chances with adopted countries decline.
Tariq Lamptey defies this trend by choosing to represent Ghana at just 22.
"You look at Tariq Lamptey, and he's a fantastic player, a fantastic right back. Maybe he's seeing his path to England is blocked,” Wright said on PL Stories.
“For me, I think that when you look at the player who kept him out of Chelsea, Reece James, and how good he is, you can understand why Lamptey might seek opportunities elsewhere
“When you look at what Tariq has done…, he is someone who should be on that stage. If he can get that from Ghana, then he should take it.
“I think we’re probably going to see more of this trend, as me and Mikel were just saying. If you’re good enough, you shouldn’t be held back or waiting."