Ghana has turned down a request from West Ham United seeking permission to field Mohammed Kudus against Brighton on Tuesday.
Kudus, who has been summoned to join the Ghanaian national team for the Africa Cup of Nations starting on January 13, is subject to Premier League clubs releasing players for the African tournament starting January 1.
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Despite West Ham's appeal for special dispensation due to their rescheduled game on January 2, Ghana's coach Chris Hughton insists on all players adhering to the original reporting date.
Nayef Aguerd, West Ham's Moroccan defender, is also expected to be unavailable.
Kudus's absence could pose a significant setback for West Ham, given his impressive performances since joining from Ajax in the summer, scoring nine goals in 24 appearances across all competitions.
Having missed the previous Africa Cup of Nations due to injury, Kudus is now set to represent Ghana this time. However, if Ghana advances in the tournament, Kudus will miss crucial matches for West Ham against teams like Manchester United and Arsenal.