Ghanaian forward Bernard Tekpetey has expressed concerns about what he believes is a deliberate attempt to keep him out of the Black Stars squad, raising fresh questions about his prolonged absence from the national team.

The Ludogorets Razgrad attacker has continued to attract attention through his performances in European football, but his contributions have not translated into another opportunity with Ghana's senior national team.

Tekpetey last featured for the Black Stars during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon. Since then, he has remained outside the national team setup despite establishing himself as an important player at club level.

His continued absence has occasionally generated discussions among football supporters, particularly those who believe his experience and performances deserve consideration for international selection.

The forward has previously spoken about the disappointment associated with missing out on national team opportunities. He has also acknowledged that the responsibility for selecting players rests with the technical team and depends on the coach's tactical preferences.

In 2024, Tekpetey reportedly disclosed that the Bulgarian Football Federation had approached him about the possibility of switching his international allegiance. However, the player indicated that he would need to discuss the matter with his family before making any decision.

His latest comments have brought renewed attention to the relationship between players and national team selection officials, particularly concerning footballers who believe their performances have earned them opportunities.

The Black Stars have faced continued scrutiny over squad selections, with supporters frequently debating the inclusion and exclusion of certain players.

Tekpetey's concerns are likely to generate further discussion about whether players competing regularly at the highest level receive adequate consideration when national team squads are assembled.

However, any suggestion that there is a deliberate effort to exclude the forward remains an allegation and would require supporting evidence. The Ghana Football Association and the Black Stars technical team have not been established as having confirmed such an arrangement.