Sports News of Friday, 13 May 2005
Source: jfm
Kumasi Asante Kotoko has dissociated itself from disparaging comments made by a member of the club?s board of directors, Wilberforce Mfum, towards FIFA Referee Atikese.
Mr Mfum reportedly told an Accra based radio station that Kotoko were opposed to the appointment of Atikese as referee for Sunday?s league game against Accra Hearts of Oak.
The former Black Stars player argued that Ewe referees are often unfair towards Kotoko.
Mfum?s comments have been met with strong criticisms from football circles.
The Police Administration has issued a statement condemning the comments and assuring the public of increased security for Sunday?s match.
The Ghana Football Association has also issued a statement condemning the pronouncement from the ex-Black Stars player.
Meanwhile, Kumasi Asante Kotoko board chairman, Mr P.V Obeng says the views expressed by Mr Mfum do not reflect the position of the club.
He has however apologised on behalf of the board and insists the club has no objections over the choice of referee Atikese for Sunday?s match.
?We have no intention of taking Kotoko on the partisan path. Indeed it will be infantile on our part to take such a tribalistic stance position. I must state that the purported stance taken by Mr Mfum is not the official position of the club.?
?Nevertheless, I wish to apologize profusely to the GFA, the Referee?s association and the individuals involved on behalf of my board member.? Mr Obeng said.