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Sports News of Friday, 22 June 2012

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Rawlings urges support for destitute ex-players

Former Ghana President Jerry John Rawlings has called on current Black Stars players to support ex-Ghana players who are struggling to make ends meet. The former leader of the country made the call on Friday when a delegation from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the family of the late Jordan Anagblah visited him to formally inform him of the death of the Vice-President of the GFA.

The late Anagblah, who was a close friend and ally of Mr. Rawlings, died in Accra last week after a short illness.

The delegation led by GFA president Kwesi Nyantakyi and GFA Executive Committee members Fred Crenstil and George Afriyie informed Mr. Rawlings of plans to set up a fund to cater for the children of Anagblah.

The former leader of the country pledged his support for Anagblah's funeral and called on current players who are doing well financially to support the needy in sports.

"I saddens me to see that people who served the country in the sports sector in the past are struggling. Those people played and served the country because they love the country," Mr Rawlings said.

"Things have changed especially for the footballers who are playing in Europe. I want to advice them to help some of these former players who are struggling. "Some of these great people who served the country in the past in the sports sector paved the way for the current players to be noted abroad.

"So when times like this (the setting up of the fund for Anagblah's children) comes up these footballers should come out in their numbers to support." Mr. Rawlings, who was accompanied by Herbert Mensah, - a former chairman of Kotoko - recounted the good times he shared with the late Anagblah.

Nyantakyi thanked Mr. Rawlings for supporting Ghana football and assured him that the GFA will ensure a befitting burial for the late Anagblah. Anagblah was 55.

He was elected Vice President of the GFA last year having served on the Executive Committee for over a decade.

He remained a pillar in the development of youth football through the country. Below are pictures of the visit to Mr Rawlings' house. You can use it for your publications.