Black Starlets head coach Kassim Ocansey has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to retain the current Under-17 squad, saying the players could provide the foundation for the country’s senior national teams.

Ocansey believes the team’s potential has been evident at the 2026 WAFU Zone B U17 Championship in Burkina Faso and that the players should continue developing together rather than being separated after the tournament.

“I will say we should not do away with the team. We must keep this team together for the future. There are a lot of potential players in the team and if we can keep them, they can be the foundation for the future of our senior national teams,” he said.

The coach’s appeal reflects the importance of continuity in Ghana’s football development system. Keeping the squad together would give the players more time to strengthen their understanding, build partnerships and gain further international experience.

It would also provide a clearer route from youth football to the senior level, helping talented players adjust gradually to the demands of competitive football.

Ocansey’s recommendation is not limited to protecting the current Black Starlets group. He is calling for a longer-term development approach in which promising players receive the consistency and support needed to progress into senior internationals.

With sustained investment and continuity, members of the squad could go on to play an important role for Ghana at the highest level.

GFA Communications