Michael Essien might have left the African Nations Cup but Ghana midfielder, Kwadwo Asamoah is confident the return of other squad members from injury would be essential for the quarterfinal final clash against Angola.

For a campaign blighted by key personnel withdrawals through injuries, Essien’s was the latest setback for Ghana as the Chelsea arrived in London on Thursday to continue with his recuperation from a knee ligament injury picked up during training.

Ghana’s squad at the Nations Cup has been reduced to 22 players; however, Asamoah is delighted with the progress being made by some injured members ahead of Sunday’s quarter-final clash.

“Hopefully, we will have some our colleagues back. Michael (Essien) is not returning, but the return of others will be pivotal,” Asamoah said.

The return of players from injury appears a big boost for Ghana who are expected to come up against the host nation; Angola backed by a partisan crowd at the November 11 Stadium.

Though admitting to a difficult match, a confident Asamoah rather says Ghana won’t be subdued by the partisan home crowd.

“We played them before in a friendly and know much about them. It will definitely be a difficult match,” said, the Ghana midfielder.

“When we played against them in the friendly, it was the same atmosphere. It had no effect on our play and so will it be this time.

“In football, supporters don’t count; it is the pitch that determines the winner.”