Akaminko Releases Emotional Statement: 'I Will Kick Every Ball With You In Spirit'

Injured Ghana defender Jerry Yaw Akaminko has posted a very soul-stirring message expressing gratitude to all his well wishers and family, and also emphasizing his disappointment at missing the World Cup. Nonetheless, the former Heart of Lions center-back saved some touching words of support and encouragement to his Ghana team mates saying 'He will kick every ball with them in spirit' in Brazil. Akaminko was ruled out of the 2014 World Cup after picking up an injury in the friendly game against the Netherlands on Saturday, therefore missing Ghana's 23-man final squad to the tournament. The 26-year-old injured his ankle after landing awkwardly from an aerial challenge in the 1-0 defeat to the Dutch in the game played in Rotterdam. Akaminko is in Miami USA, where Ghana has pitched camp and he will undergo a surgery that is expected to keep him out of action for close to nine weeks. Despite agonisingly missing the biggest football competition in the World, Akaminko stated that he he believes he has played his part in getting the team to Brazil and would be 'kicking every ball with them in spirit. But in the first public communication with is fans, the Eskişehirspor defender who was hugely considered to be one of the sure bets to make the final Ghana squad for the 2014 World Cup posted an emotional message on his Facebook wall which read; "To all my well wishers, Firstly I want to thank you all for the messages of support. I have read every single message and really appreciate them all. I also want to thank my family, friends, all the players and staff of the Ghana national team. I'm a strong believer of fate and even though I'm extremely disappointed to be missing the World Cup, I know my time will come. Above I believe God is in control I played my part in getting the 'team' to Brazil and I emphasise on team because the Blackstars are one team. Every player in the final 23 is capable of achieving new heights with our support. The bond within the group is fantastic and I wish the boys the best of luck. I will be kicking every ball with them in spirit and screaming at the TV like a crazy fan. I will spare no one. I'm currently in Miami and due to see a specialist tomorrow. I hope to have a date for surgery and rehabilitation period soon. Will keep you posted. I will be back stronger than before for both club and country and my aim is to be fit to help Ghana reach next years AFCON. Once again thank you for all for your support. JAKA will be back soon". Akaminko has worked extremely hard all-season-long at Ekisehirspor to earn a return to the Black Stars team after an extensive snub after the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. The 26-year-old is set to undergo surgery in New York and will be on the sidelines for at least three months.