John Panstil in the middle of a club versus country 'row'

The Ghanaian Football Association (GFA) has expressed anger for comments made by the manager of Fulham.

Roy Hodgson says he expects midfielder John Pantsil to feature in Fulham's game on the 28th of December.

"It's a bit disrespectful of the African nations to write to the English clubs asking their players to be released on the 27th when they know that we all have matches on the 28th."

But the GFA say Pantsil must be released.

Fulham play English Premiership leaders Chelsea on that day and Hodgson said Pantsil will play in that game.

"I expect Pantsil to be playing for us on 28 and he will unless FIFA intervene and insist he goes," he said.

"It's probably just a little bit of oversight on their part and I don't expect for one minute for Ghana to insist that John Pantsil meets up with them on 27th."

The GFA has replied to Hodgson, branding his behaviour as unprofessional.

"He cannot just go and say that. I am surprised that a man of his standing is taking this stance," a GFA spokesman said.

"Mr Hodgson does not determine what the law is. He doesn't have the power to breach the law."

Fifa rules state that clubs must release their players 14 days before the start of any recognised international tournament.

Football's world governing body can dock Fulham any points they pick up against Chelsea if Pantsil plays in the game.

Another player who could be at the centre of a club versus country row is Algeria's Madjid Bougherra.

His club side Rangers is trying to persuade Algeria to allow him to play in the game against Celtic on January 3.

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