Young Apostles head coach Asare Bediako has called for the inclusion of more Kumasi-born players and coaches in Asante Kotoko’s setup, emphasising the value of local talent.
His comments came after his team held the Porcupine Warriors to a 1-1 draw in a fiercely contested Ghana Premier League match at the Len Clay Stadium.
Following the match, Bediako suggested that coaches from Kumasi, like himself, should be given opportunities to manage Kotoko, sparking discussions within the football community.
However, in an interview with Kessben FM, Bediako clarified his remarks, stating that his intention was to highlight the importance of Kumasi’s football talent, not to undermine the current Kotoko head coach, Ogum Narteh.
“Yes, I said Kumasi needs Kumasi. This is not just about coaches; it’s about players too,” Bediako explained. “Many successful players and coaches from Kumasi have contributed to Kotoko’s success in the past. I think it’s essential to have at least four regular players from Kumasi in the squad. This doesn’t mean that players from outside Kumasi lack talent. Across the Ghana Premier League, players from Kumasi have been excelling.”
Bediako also stressed that his comments were not a push for the Kotoko coaching role but an affirmation of the capabilities within the local football community.
“I’m not saying I want to coach Kotoko, but I believe that if given the chance, I could be successful there,” he added.