Asamoah Gyan has apologised for his penalty miss in Ghana's 2012 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final exit.

The Black Stars striker, failed to score from the penalty spot during Ghana's 1-0 semi-final defeat to eventual champions Zambia in Bata.

He also missed from the spot in the 2012 World Cup against Uruguay, where a successful conversion would have led to Ghana's progression to the semi-finals.

Gyan, speaking to SkySports admits being hurt and says the miss was never on purpose.

"I'd like to apologise to the fans," he said.

"It's been very difficult for me. I'd never miss a penalty on purpose.

"It's now two of the biggest penalties in my country's history and it's difficult to take.

"I've been unlucky. We all miss them. Fans should know it's not easy. [Didier] Drogba missed in the final.

"(Samuel) Eto'o has missed before. It's happened to the greatest before, I'm sorry."