Coach Attuquayefio Criticizes Hearts Board

A former coach of Accra Hearts of Oak, "Sir" Cecil Jones Attuquayefio, has expressed shock at the way Hearts' Board treated him and other applicants during the race for the club's Chief Executive position. He told GNA Sports in an interview that after serving the club for four years during which he won the league for four consecutive times, the African Champions League and the Super cup, the Board should have at least informed him and the other applicants of their choice for the position.

Hearts? Board, last week confirmed Thomas Okine, former Team Manager who acted when former Chief Executive, Harry Zakkour's term of office expired as substantive Chief Executive.

The Board had advertised the position in the media but confirmed Mr. Okine?s appointment without interviewing the other applicants. It said it took the action "taking the sentiments of fans into consideration." But Coach Attuaquayefio says he has been treated unfairly.

"I am not against Okine being appointed but I think the procedure is not the best."

He, however, expressed appreciation to the Board Chairman, Mr Ato Ahwoi for giving him a special dispensation to apply and defending him when Rainbow Sports Newspaper launched a barrage of attacks against him in an attempt to tarnish his image. The former Coach however took a sharp swipe at Mr. Ahwoi for returning his application letter to him, a day before Mr. Okine?s appointment with the explanation that he should readdress it to the Board Secretary.

On his future plans, Coach Attuquayefio says he has not yet given up on the game but would soon bounce back. He noted that his recent visit to the Great Britain and the United States has given him enough insight into modern trends in football administration, which he intends to put at the disposal of Ghana football.