Abdul Razak has the qualities needed to coach the Black Stars - according to Ghana Football Association (GFA) chairman Ben Koufie.

Razak, the 1978 African Footballer of the Year, has been a huge success as coach of Mali champions Stade Malien, but now wants the Ghana national team job.

Koufie says he is impressed with Razak, but distanced himself from comments made by the Ghanaian legend, who recently claimed he was almost certain to be handed the reins of the Black Stars.

"Razak has got a good track record," Koufie told BBC Sport Online.

"Apart from playing he has done very well as a coach."

Nevertheless, Razak will face stiff competition for the job.

"We have six or seven expatriates who have applied and we will give everybody a chance. It will be an open race," Koufie said.

Koufie went on to say that the GFA has given itself until the New Year to make an appointment.

"I believe it could even be before then but we have given ourselves till 1 January at the latest."

Ghana have had a succession of coaches in recent times, but Koufie believes much needed stability could be just one appointment away.

"If there is no continuity, it is very difficult to get the expected results," Koufie acknowledged.

"It is time we broke away from this pattern of coaching instability and did the right things."