Gambian international and Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh has announced that he will not play for the national team until the rehabilitation of Independence Stadium is completed, accusing authorities of failing to prioritise players’ welfare.

Speaking to journalist Foday Fo, the 21-year-old revealed that he is leading a player boycott aimed at pressuring authorities to fast-track work on the country’s main football venue.

“I’m not playing for the Gambian national team anymore until the stadium is ready because I am frustrated,” Minteh said.

He disclosed that he had encouraged fellow Scorpions players to refuse call-ups until the stadium is ready but claimed many were afraid to publicly support the action.

“I’m behind this strike. I have tried to bring players with me to not play for Gambia anymore until the stadium is ready because the authorities don’t care about us. But many players are scared.”

Minteh insisted his decision is not about personal interests but about improving conditions for Gambian football.

“Many people will say that I feel big now or that I think I’m too important, but I don’t care. I know I am doing this for Gambia, and somebody has to take this step,” he said.

The winger said he discussed the issue extensively with teammates before taking the decision, arguing that the prolonged absence of a suitable home stadium can no longer be ignored.