Asamoah Gyan and Andre Ayew both make their first start for Ghana after six months as the Black Stars play Malawi in a challenging final-round 2013 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Both attackers last featured for the Black Stars at the 2012 Nations Cup but make the team for Saturday afternoon's first leg fixture at the Accra Sports Stadium. Kick-off is at 15:30GMT.

Gyan, who leads the line together with Jordan Ayew is the captain as youngster Christian Atsu makes his first start at home.

The return leg will be played on the weekend of October 12-14 and the winner over both legs will qualify for the Nations Cup finals in South Africa, next January.

Starting Line-up: Adam Kwarasey, Daniel Opare, Harrison Afful, John Boye, Isaac Vorsah, Anthony Annan, Christian Atsu, Jordan Ayew, Asamoah Gyan, Kwadwo Asamoah, Andre Ayew

Reserves: Samuel Inkoom, Derek Boateng, Jerry Akaminko, Isaac Coffie, Solomon Asante, Emmanuel Clottey, Fatau Dauda