Ex-Ghana winger Charles Taylor has sparked controversy after he urged young players to shun Hearts for Kotoko.

The footballer turned pastor claims growing talents will benefit immensely if they choose Kotoko over their arch-rivals.

Taylor, an ex-Hearts and Kotoko star, has been critical of the game since he retired from the game.

The former Enugu Rangers wideman has urged youngster who aspire for greatness to shun Hearts.

"For me if you’re a player and you want to have a fruitful life after your career, I would advise that you play for Kotoko rather than Hearts. If you play for Kotoko with a good mind and performs exceptionally, you can get whatever you want in life,’’ he told Kumasi-based Boss FM.

"I realized that at Hearts they will hail you if you perform and at Kotoko they will hail you and present you with all sorts of gifts.

"I remember when I came to Kotoko I didn’t take my salary for six months because what I was receiving from the supporters were more than my pay. So if you’re a local player and you want to progress in life you should choose Kotoko ahead of Hearts of Oak,’’

"I still receive gifts from Kotoko supporters. Only big men like TT Brothers normally present us with gift. At Kotoko, even common second-hand goods clothe sell gives you something unlike Hearts."

Hearts have been largely accused of neglecting their former stars with bed-ridden Agyemang Duah, latest to lash out at the club.