2017 AFCON: Gyan, Mensah dropped from Ghana starting line-up for Rwanda clash - Yiadom, Amartey start

Ghana coach Avram Grant has dropped Asamoah Gyan from his starting line-up to face Rwanda their 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier this afternoon with in-form Richmond Boakye-Yiadom taking the place of the unfit captain.

The Israeli manager also axed regular centre-back Jonathan Mensah from his starting line-up for the first time since taking over the Black Stars job in December last year.

Denmark-based Daniel Amartey gets a rare start in the Black Stars central defence following the decision to start Mensah from the bench.

In the absence of Gyan, Boakye Yiadom will partner Jordan Ayew in attack while playmaker can captain for the afternoon Andre Ayew will play behind the strikers.

However, Grant maintained his regular defensive team with Chelsea newboy Baba Rahman playing from the left with Harrison Afful tackling from the right.

They, together with Boye and Quartey will form the defensive partnership to shield goalkeeper Razak Brimah from the counter attacking Rwandan side.

The central midfielders for the Black Stars are maintained with Afriyie Acquah playing together in the middle with Christian Atsu in support with his pace and skills from the right.

The selection shows that Grant has put Mensah on the bench because of his period of inactivity following the club ban he received from FIFA while playing those who are regulars for their club sides.

The starting line-up shows that Grant is keen on attacking the Rwandans in their backyard as the Black Stars seek a win in Kigali.

The two sides are tied at the top of the Group H with three points apiece but the Black Stars sit on top thanks to their better goals difference.

The last time the two sides met in Kigali in 2003, the Amavubi won the game 1-0 preventing the Black Stars from qualifying for the tournament in 2004.