Michael Essien takes up a defensive role as he steps in for the suspended John Mensah in today’s semi-final clash of the African Cup of Nations against Cameroon.

Essien who leads Ghana would partner Eric Addo in central defence as Claude Le Roy hands Haminu Draman a starting role in his line up.

Andre Ayew gets a starting role against the Indomitable Lions in place of Laryea Kingston who picked up a late injury during warm up.

Anthony Annan gets his third cap for Ghana as he remains in midfield.

The tactical changes by Le Roy sees Quincy Owusu-Abeyie move upfront to partner Junior Agogo as Ghana’s striking duo in the absence of Asamoah Gyan.

Starting team:

Richard Kingson, John Paintsil, Hans Adu-Sarpei, Eric Addo, Michael Essien, Anthony Annan, Andre Ayew, Sulley Muntari, Junior Agogo, Quincy Owusu-Abeyie and Haminu Draman.

Subs:Sammy Adjei, Asamoah Gyan, Nana Kwasi Asare, Harrison Afful, Alhassan Illiasu, Bernard Kumordzi, Laryea Kingston, Baffour Gyan, Kwadwo Asamoah and Fatau Duada.

Suspended: John Mensah