The Ghana Football Associati on (GFA) announced on Thursday that world soccer governing body, FIFA, has approved Ghana's request for a nationality switch by striker Quincy Owusu-Abeyie.

GFA executive committee member and spokesperson, Randy Abbey, said FIFA's decision meant that the Celta Vigo striker, who applied to switch allegiance to enable him to play for Ghana, would be available for selection by Ghana coach, Claude Le Roy for the up-coming African Cup of Nations.

GFA said on its website that the 21-year-old player, whose parents hail from Ghana, played for the Dutch Under-20 team at the FIFA World Youth Championship in 2005.

However, a change in FIFA statutes three years ago allowed players who had represented one country at junior level to play for another country if they were entitled to dual nationality and aged below the age of 21. The former Arsenal player decided to play for Ghana, and subsequently applied to FIFA formally to sanction the move.

GFA said Owusu-Abeyie was given a surprise treat when news broke that FIFA had approved his application for a nationality switch.

"Claude Le Roy marched towards his players who had gathered for the last training session of Thursday and all he did was to announce FIFA's decision to the gathering and that news drew spontaneous joy among the gathering," GFA said.

"Afterwards, an elated but surprised Quincy had his treat from squad members when he was showered with water from his colleagues," it said.

President of the GFA, Kwesi Nyantakyi said: "The excitement before the before Ghana's afternoon training session was a great one. Everyone was happy for Quincy.

"He had expressed his desire to play for Ghana, a decision everyone must now respect. I hope he enjoys himself playing for the Black Stars.

"I wish him the very best of luck and as he finds himself the midst of some great players and good managers, I pray he shares in the good moments now and the coming days."