I play out of position without complaining – Jordan Ayew

Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew proved to be the hero for Ghana on Monday night, scoring a spectacular hat-trick in their nail-biting 4-3 victory over the Central African Republic in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier. Despite his match-winning performance, the 32-year-old forward opened up about a persistent challenge he faces: playing out of position for both his club and national team.

“I’ve been playing out of position for quite some time in the national team and also at the club level,” Ayew confessed in a candid post-match interview. “But I have always done my duty, put my country first, and never complained because I always give my all.”

Ayew, whose preferred role is as a number nine—a central striker who leads the attack—expressed that his adaptability has often seen him deployed in various other positions on the pitch. “It’s difficult [to say]. It’s not something that I like to talk about but obviously, my favorite position right from the academy in France, in the national team has always been as a number 9,” he explained. “But I understand because I have qualities that allow me to play in the pockets of spaces, and I don’t complain.”

His willingness to play wherever needed underscores Ayew’s commitment and team-first mentality. Despite not always playing in his favored position, Ayew has consistently delivered for both club and country, showcasing his versatility and resilience. This adaptability has been a crucial asset, particularly for Ghana, where tactical flexibility is often required to address the dynamic challenges of international football.

The Crystal Palace forward’s hat-trick not only secured a crucial win for Ghana but also elevated his international goal tally to 28, cementing his place as the sixth-highest scorer in the history of Ghanaian football. This milestone is a significant achievement, reflecting his enduring quality and importance to the national team. Ayew’s prolific scoring record and consistent performances have been instrumental in Ghana’s quest for World Cup qualification, highlighting his goal-scoring prowess and leadership on the pitch.

Currently the oldest player in the Ghana squad, Ayew has been in remarkable form, scoring eight goals in his last five games. His recent performances have been vital in Ghana’s World Cup campaign, providing crucial goals and demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.

In addition to his on-field contributions, Ayew’s experience and leadership are invaluable to the younger players in the squad. His professionalism and dedication serve as a role model, inspiring the next generation of Ghanaian footballers. His willingness to adapt and play out of position, all while maintaining high-performance levels, exemplifies his commitment to the team’s success.