Namibia coach Ricardo Mannetti believes the versatility of Ryan Nyambe can prove vital to his side ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

The Rovers full back made his debut for his country in a 1-0 win over Ghana on Sunday before being confirmed in the final 23-man squad.

Nyambe had wanted to focus on earning a regular place in the Rovers side before committing to international football which he did in April after signing a new two-year deal at Ewood Park.

He is the highest profile player in the Brave Warriors squad, who despite being boosted by a shock win over Ghana, are underdogs to quality from their group.

After selecting his squad, Mannetti says his decisions came based upon tactics, conditioning, performance and attitude, with Nyambe offering the option of playing at both right back and in central defence.

“Those are the pillars of our decision,” the coach said.

“Also, the inclusion of Ryan Nyambe at the back, his versatility is key for the changes at the back.

“We feel this team has the right energy, they are right for the tactics and will represent Namibia to the best of their abilities.

“These are the right players with the right work ethic and harmony.”

The other European-based player in the squad is Manfred Starke, who plays for Carl Zeiss Jena in the lower leagues in Germany, and netted the winner against Ghana.

The Brave Warriors open their Nations Cup campaign against Morocco on June 23, before taking on South Africa on June 28.

They will play their final group game against Ivory Coast on July 1.

That will see Nyambe miss the opening weeks of pre-season, including the week-long fitness camp in Austria later this month.