Team News: Michael Essien, Kevin-Prince Boateng miss out for Ghana against USA

Neither Michael Essien nor Kevin-Prince Boateng has been named in the Ghana team to face the USA in Group G on Monday night.

Essien was expected to recover from fitness issues to take his place in midfield, but he has failed to prove his fitness in time to convince Kewsi Appiah he is ready, while Boateng's absence is believed to be a tactical decision.

Jordan Ayew and his brother, Andre, both start the opening match of the campaign, with Asamoah Gyan trusted to lead the line for the Black Stars.

Sunderland striker Jozy Altidore is named in attack for the USA, with experienced forward Clint Dempsey available to offer support going forward, while Michael Bradley is included in Jurgen Klinsmann's midfield.

USA: Howard; Johnson, Cameron, Besler, Beasley, Beckerman; Jones, Bradley, Bedoya, Dempsey; Altidore

© Getty Images

Ghana Kwarasey; Opare, Mensah, Boye, Asamoah; A.Ayew, Rabiu, Muntari, Atsu, J.Ayew; Gyan

© Getty Images

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