Story by GBC’s Special Correspondents Michael Okuley, YAOUNDE.
Black Stars striker Richmond Boakye-Yiadom has called on Ghanaians to be mindful of their criticisms when the team is struggling to achieve the desired results.
Ghana is struggling in the ongoing Africa cup of nations in Cameroon following their opening day defeat to the Atlas Lion of Morocco on Monday in Yaounde.
The Black Stars will be in an image redemption exercise as they face the Panthers of Gabon in their second group game with the sole aim of winning to brighten their chances of pressing into the knockout stage of the competition.
According to the Beitar Jerusalem attacker who was speaking at the team’s press conference, the players are aware of the enormous expectations from the fans
of which forces them to criticize.
“We all understand the passion at which Ghanaians love their Black Stars and expect us to win every game. When we are not able to get them the win the bashing should be moderate. They should have some patience for us as we work to qualify for the finals. We accept criticisms and that makes us better. But not everyone can take the harsh ones. It could end up dumping the spirit of some players whereas others can take it cool.”
In a related development, the six-time goal scorer feels pleased and honored to be compared to the legendary Asamoah Gyan. Boakye-Yiadom who had a sterling performance in the 2013 World U-20 championship was touted as the perfect replacement for the former Sunderland striker.
“I heard it and read about it but when I had a couple of injuries which slowed me down when came from China. I believe for me to do half of what Asamoah Gyan did or get to his level I need consistency in the national team as he had and there has to be a belief and support in the national team. We don’t just use one day to improve on something. It needs time and when you give them time and focus on 3 or 4 strikers, keep them and beginning to work on them we may do at least half of what Asamoah Gyan. We should be able to give positive support to the team.”
Richmond Boakye-Yiadom had his debut call-up to the Black Stars in a friendly match against China at the Tianhe Stadium on 15 August 2012 where he scored his first goal to equalize in the 80th minute of the game. He also played for Ghana at the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup, winning the bronze medal.
