Accra, Nov 6, GNA - Former Black Stars captain, the maestro Abedi Pele Ayew has slammed football lovers who have complained about inadequate hype and promotional campaigns for the Ghana 2008 Africa Cup of Nations.

"I sharply disagree with those complaining about the hype and interest for the tournament.

"The hype created so far is the biggest ever seen in the history of the competition and I think the public must rather commend the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for what they have done so far up to this point".

Abedi Pele who said this at the unveiling of a billboard by Stanbic Ghana Limited in Accra, noted that the LOC was not behind in terms of promotion as claimed by some members of the public with barely 74 days to the opening ceremony of the 26th edition of the continental showpiece that laces Africa's 16 best teams together.

The Maestro expressed shock at the manner in which some media personnel have handled the issue of the hype and publicity towards hosting of the event.

"The LOC has done well and I don't understand what people mean when they say there is no hype."

Abedi, who captained the senior national team between 1992 and 1998 said this is the first ever Africa Cup of Nations to have received tremendous corporate sponsorship and will therefore be on the downside for people to be complaining about hype.

The three-time African Best Footballer expressed confidence in the LOC's ability to host the best ever edition of the continent' showpiece and called for the support of all in making that dream a reality. Ghana is chasing her fifth African title and Abedi believes that dream is within reach.

"I believe the Stars have a better team, the spirit and determination to win the Ghana 2008 Africa Cup of Nations," he added.