You can add another high profile, key player to the list of injured stars during this World Cup Finals. Michael Essien has been ruled out of South Africa 2010 after having surgery to repair a knee injury. Arguably Ghana's best player, and biggest key to their success, Essien has been battling injuries over the past few years.
He joins the likes of Ballack(whose German side is in the same group as Ghana), Beckham, Charlie Davies, Gareth Barry(still up in the air), and more. It's hard to cope with not having such players in the World Cup, but it also gives promising young talent a chance to emerge on the world's biggest stage.
Ghana will have to rely heavily on Sulley Muntari and Kevin-Prince Boateng(the man responsible for Michael Ballack's ankle injury). Muntari is coming off a treble win with Inter Milan, and has been playing at a very high level for years. He's more than capable of taking that team on his back, but will need some help. Boateng is similar in build to Essien and plays a physical game much like Essien.
It's going to be hard for these teams to replace stars, but there are some youngsters in the wings that will more than relish the opportunity. Look for Sami Khedira to replace Michael Ballack, Milner to take the place of Barry and Dempsey to move up to Charlie Davies spot with Altidore.
It's a bittersweet thing to be without these guys, because though they're some of the best midfielders in the world, it adds a little suspense and anticipation for the young players waiting for their opportunity.
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