EVERTON will break new ground by travelling to Ghana as part of their pre- season preparations this summer.

The Goodison outfit will journey to Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time in the club’s history when they take on local opposition in early July.

David Moyes’s side will face either Asante Kotoko or Accra Hearts of Oak, both of the Ghanaian Premier League.

Local supporters will vote on who should play Everton for a fixture that will take place at the 40,000-capacity Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on Sunday, July 12, with an evening kick-off.

Goodison officials are currently looking at providing travel options for supporters who are considering travelling to watch the game.

While Everton will take a strong squad to Africa, it’s unlikely that any of the club’s international players will travel due to an extended recovery period following the summer international fixtures.

Everton have already arranged a warm-up fixture against the Major League Soccer All- Stars in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, July 29, which will form part of a wider tour of North America.

Meanwhile, Lars Jacobsen has reiterated his desire to stay at Goodison and expects talks over his future to be held later this month. Jacobsen is approaching the end of a 12-month deal after opting to leave Bundesliga side FC Nuremberg on a free transfer last summer.

The Denmark international is currently preparing for his country’s crucial World Cup qualifier in Sweden on Saturday.

And Jacobsen said: "I hope to stay but no decision has been made yet. I have had some great months after my injury, I have come back strong and I would really love to stay here.