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Soccer News of Tuesday, 27 November 2007

Source: Sammy Heywood Okine

Le Roy: Dede Ayew is rising star.

Coach of the Black Stars Claude Le Roy has describes Andre Dede Ayew as a budding star who could become a great footballer if he remained focused and worked harder through the ranks of super-stars.

"He has all the attributes of a rising star and he must keep the spirit up”, he told the Statesports in an exclusive interview after Ghana had won the Zenith Four-National tournament at the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium in Accra last Wednesday.

The French coach maintains that Dede Ayew has proved that he could even upstage his father, who was Black Stars captain and three-time winner of the African Foorballer of the year, during his playing years.

He said the performance of the 17-year old Olympic Marseille player was commendable. “He was strong and full of confidence. I love his confidence and I know he will improve with time.

“Playing in a tough top league in France and the European Championship will certainly expose him. I believe he can make it like his father Abedi whom I respect and admire a lot” he added.

Le Roy, who won his first cup with the Black Stars last Wednesday, said the youngster proved his merit for future matches and that was why he had been unearthing budding stars and not old stars who had outlined their time and had not even done anything for the nation.

“My doors are still open to players who are prepared to die for the nation”, he said, noting that he had invited players like Moses Narh (Musah Nari), Baffour Gyan and Kofi Amponsah.

The experienced French tactician also praised striker Baffour Gyan and defenceman Kofi Amponsah for their performance in the Zenith tournament. Another player he mentioned was Norway based Anthony Annan.

“Annan can play in midfield and defence and he is an asset to the team because he is intelligent and skilful. We have to work on his strength and he can play for Ghana at the African Cup”, he assured.