Ghana midfielder Bernard Yao Kumordzi has joined Greek side Panionios on a one-year contract.

The 22-year-old joined the club despite other offers from rivals AEK Athens and French side St. Etienne.

He moves from Egaleo who have been relegated to the Greek second division.

Kumordzi, who made his debut for the Ghana national team in their friendly against Brazil in March, says he opted for Panionios because of first-team prospects.

"All other offers from AEK and St. Etienne were good except that they couldn't guarantee me playing time," Kumordzi said.

"AEK are just about to sign Brazilian Rivaldo and there is no way I will play ahead of him since we all play in the same position.

"I am keen on playing for my country and Ghana coach Claude Leroy will hardly play a bench warmer since there are many excellent Ghanaians playing regularly in Europe."

Kumordzi was named the best player for the first half of the Greek Super League in January.