Black Stars goalkeeping coach Daniel Gasper says the technical team is encouraged by the recovery of first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati-Zigi but will continue to assess his condition before deciding on his availability for Ghana's FIFA World Cup match against England.

Ati-Zigi sustained a groin injury during Ghana's opening Group L fixture against Panama after a heavy collision while rushing off his line to make a save. Although he completed the first half, he was replaced at halftime by Benjamin Asare as Ghana went on to secure a 1-0 victory.

The injury has limited the St. Gallen goalkeeper's involvement in full team activities, though he returned to training on Saturday ahead of Monday's clash with England in Boston.

Speaking to Ghana Football Association (GFA) media, Gasper said the player's progress is being monitored closely by the medical team and head coach Carlos Queiroz.

“We’re extremely happy with his progress. It’s day by day. Obviously, this is a medical issue collaborated with head coach Carlos Queiroz, so we’ll take it session by session,” he said.

“We’re optimistic, and the decision will be made at the right time. But one thing for sure — we always stress team above individual. Any decision we make is in the best interest of the team.”

Gasper also explained that Ghana's decision to include four goalkeepers in its World Cup squad is intended to help manage training workloads, particularly during finishing and crossing drills.

“I’m extremely pleased with the goalkeepers we have. We have four, and sometimes there’s speculation why four goalkeepers. The reason is Coach Carlos Queiroz likes to do a lot of finishing and crossing, and it’s important we have four so they can rotate. There’s less repetition on each one of them. That keeps them healthy and sharp,” he said.

Ghana face England on June 22 knowing a positive result would strengthen their chances of progressing from Group L.

Gasper added that competition among the goalkeepers remains healthy, with all four players pushing each other in training.