The President of Ghana Coaches Association, Professor Joseph Mintah has asserted that the average Ghanaian player is not as disciplined as the European player to regard COVID-19 directives should the government allow for the close contact sport to resume.
He motioned that, even with the season on hold, some of these players are not staying put and regarding COVID-19 directives and fears that the players will bring the same attitude to the pitch, should the government decide to lift the ban placed on close contact sports including football.
Professor Mintah made this comment in a special edition of Happy 98.9 FM’s Happy Sports show which focused on the theme; ‘The Effects of COVID-19 on football: The perspectives of Ghanaian coaches” with Ohene Bampoe-Brenya. “The average Ghanaian player is not as disciplined as the European footballer.”
He could not hide his concern as he also questioned the ability of players and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) in ensuring safety when football resumes. “I am concerned if we can follow protocols to prevent the spread of the virus in camps should it break out there.”
Regardless of concerns raised, he advised stakeholders to hurry in making a decision to either truncate the season or continue with it. “The earlier we take the decision the better.” He, however, indicated that if the season is to resume, then measures should be put in place to control the spread of the virus.
He advised that the medical team of the GFA, players and coaches should be consulted before any decision is arrived at to either truncate or resume the league.
The President of Ghana over the weekend partially eased the ban placed on social gatherings and some non-close contact sports activities. This move has led to some close contact sports lovers like football to call on the government to give the Ghana Premier League the go-ahead to resume the season.