FIFA clears Frimpong switch to Ghana from England

ZURICH (AP) -Emmanuel Frimpong of Arsenal can join Ghana's bid to qualify for the 2014 World Cup after FIFA switched his national eligibility from England.

FIFA says its players' status committee approved the change on Tuesday for Frimpong to represent the 2010 World Cup quarterfinalist.

Frimpong, who is on loan to second-tier club Charlton, was born in Ghana. He soon moved to England and represented his adopted country at under-16 and under-17 level.

The 20-year-old midfielder committed to Ghana last year but could not play for the Black Stars until officials sent necessary documents to FIFA.

Ghana resumes qualifying in March at home to Sudan, and trails group leader Zambia by three points after two matches.

Zambia's victory by default over Sudan is still under appeal by the Sudanese, who fielded an ineligible player.