Black Stars goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi has handed Ghana a major fitness boost after returning to training ahead of Monday's crucial World Cup Group L clash with England, with goalkeeping coach Daniel Gasper confirming the St. Gallen shot-stopper is progressing day by day.
Ati-Zigi was forced off during Ghana's 1-0 victory over Panama on Wednesday after suffering a groin injury, with Benjamin Asare stepping in for his World Cup debut.
🏋🏽♂️ Lawrence Ati-Zigi putting in the work. 💪🏾
— 🇬🇭 Black Stars (@GhanaBlackstars) June 21, 2026
📹 @TecnoMobileGH 📲#BlackStars | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/edfb4h2Byb
The injury raised concerns that the first-choice goalkeeper might be ruled out of the tournament, but a video shared by the Ghana Football Association on Saturday showed Ati-Zigi training alongside his teammates at the Boston Stadium.
Speaking to ghanafa.org, Gasper stressed that the technical team is extremely happy with the goalkeeper's progress but insisted that any decision on his return would be made session by session and in the best interest of the team.
"We're extremely happy with his progress. It's day by day. Obviously, this is a medical issue collaborated with head coach Carlos Queiroz, so we'll take it session by session," Gasper said.
"We're optimistic, and the decision will be made at the right time. But one thing for sure — we always stress team above individual. Any decision we make is in the best interest of the team."
Gasper also addressed the decision to carry four goalkeepers in the World Cup squad, a move that has generated speculation. He explained that head coach Carlos Queiroz's preference for intensive finishing and crossing drills necessitated the additional shot-stopper to manage training loads and reduce repetition.
"I'm extremely pleased with the goalkeepers we have. We have four, and sometimes there's speculation why four goalkeepers. The reason is Coach Carlos Queiroz likes to do a lot of finishing and crossing, and it's important we have four so they can rotate. There's less repetition on each one of them. That keeps them healthy and sharp," Gasper said.
The goalkeeping coach, who has been working alongside his counterpart Fatou, described the training environment as competitive yet positive, praising the humility, character, and devotion of all four goalkeepers. "The challenge we give the goalkeepers is: wake up the next day better than the day before. They've responded extremely well," he said.
With England lying in wait on Monday, Gasper confirmed that preparations are already underway to counter the Three Lions' attacking threats. "Obviously, England is one of the best teams in the world. They have certain characteristics and a style of play, and we're exposing our goalkeepers to those conditions. We're preparing them not only for the timing of catching and boxing, but also the physical challenge they'll face. I have no doubt our goalkeepers are prepared for all the conditions against England," he stated.
Gasper also extended his appreciation to Ghanaian fans, whose support he said has been invaluable to the team. "I've been extremely proud to be part of the Ghana national team. I feel the love from the people. Our players feel the support, and we will do everything to the best of our ability to bring joy and happiness to the Ghanaian people. They bring a certain energy and vibe, and the players feed off that. Just keep giving us that support, keep believing in the Ghana national team — because we're going to fight for you," he said.
Ghana face England in Boston on June 23, knowing that a result would put them in a strong position to qualify from Group L. With Ati-Zigi's return to training, the Black Stars have received a timely boost as they prepare for their toughest test of the tournament.
