Ghana striker Jordan Ayew has revealed his willingness to adapt to different roles within the national team and his club Crystal Palace, despite playing out of his preferred position.
Ayew, traditionally a number 9, has found himself deployed as a winger and even as a central midfielder in recent years.
However, in a must-win game against the Central African Republic, Ghana coach Otto Addo named him as a centre forward, where Ayew demonstrated his quality by scoring a hat-trick in a thrilling 4-3 victory that saw Ghana take control of Group I in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Reflecting on his adaptability, Ayew stated, “I’ve been playing out of position for quite some time in the national team and also at the club level. But I have always done my duty, put my country first, and never complained because I always give my all.”
While Ayew acknowledges his preference for the number 9 role, he understands the importance of utilising his versatility in different positions on the field.
“It’s difficult. It’s not something that I like to talk about, but obviously, my favourite position right from the academy, France, in the national team has always been as a number 9. But I understand because I have qualities that allow me to play in the pockets of spaces, and I don’t complain,” he added.
Despite uncertainties surrounding his club’s future amid reports of a potential departure from Crystal Palace, Ayew remains focused and composed. He has showcased his scoring prowess for Ghana, netting seven goals in his last five games.
