Former Manchester United defender and Salford City co-owner Gary Neville has praised Ghana striker Brandon Thomas-Asante following his impressive performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the forward's rise to the biggest stage in football as a reward for years of hard work and perseverance.
Thomas-Asante played a key role in Ghana's opening Group stage victory over Panama, providing the decisive assist for Caleb Yirenkyi's winning goal in Toronto.
His contribution helped the Black Stars secure a crucial 1-0 victory and continue their strong history at the FIFA World Cup.
Speaking on the popular Stick to Football podcast, Neville reflected on Thomas-Asante's remarkable journey from England's lower leagues to representing Ghana at the World Cup.
"I love Brandon Thomas-Asante. He used to play for Salford. He deserves it. He deserves it, he's good," Neville said.
The former England international recalled how Thomas-Asante was identified during trials after being released by Milton Keynes Dons as a teenager.
According to Neville, former Salford figures Chris Casper and Warren Joyce quickly recognised the striker's potential and pushed for the club to sign him.
"He was at Milton Keynes Dons and got released. I think he was 18 or 19. We were setting up our B team and we had trials. Warren Joyce was basically taking over our B team and he said, 'you've got to sign that lad now,'" Neville explained.
Thomas-Asante soon became one of Salford City's standout performers, earning admiration from supporters and club officials alike.
Neville fondly remembered the striker's goalscoring exploits during the early stages of a season when he established himself as one of the team's key players.
"I remember going on holiday to Greece in August and we'd started the season. I think he'd scored five or six in eight games. He was on fire. He was ripping up teams," Neville added.
Since leaving Salford, Thomas-Asante has continued his upward trajectory, enjoying spells with West Bromwich Albion and Coventry City while also breaking into Ghana's national team setup.
Neville believes the striker's development is a testament to the importance of giving talented young players opportunities to prove themselves.
While admitting Salford were disappointed to lose him, he expressed pride in seeing the forward succeed at the highest level.
"He'll be in the Premier League this year. He got Ghana in a World Cup," Neville said.
Thomas-Asante's World Cup performance against Panama further underlined his importance to Carlos Queiroz's side as Ghana seek to progress deep into the tournament.
With praise coming from one of English football's most recognisable figures, the striker's inspiring journey continues to capture attention on the global stage.
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