Isaac Amoako, former Asante Kotoko goalkeeper and current goalkeepers’ coach of Nsoatreman FC, has praised Black Stars coach Chris Hughton for his attention to the Ghana Premier League.
Amoako believes that Hughton’s presence at various match venues during the league matches to scout players for the Black Stars is a positive move towards giving locally-based players the opportunity to be involved in the national team.
Although Hughton has not included any local players in his initial call-up, Amoako thinks that the coach’s scouting work will give local players a fair chance during future Black Stars call-ups.
He commended Hughton for his consistency in watching the league matches, saying that this approach differs from that of previous Black Stars coaches who focused more on foreign players.
Amoako expressed hope that Hughton’s scouting activities would uncover some talented local players who could eventually make it into the national team’s squad in subsequent call-ups.
He believes that the change in narrative under Hughton is encouraging and gives local players a fair opportunity to be considered for national team call-ups.
“It’s very encouraging. I saw him in the stands when we (Nsoatreman FC) played Tamale City at the Aliu Mahama Stadium and I think that is the way to go by. Erstwhile Black Stars coaches watched the league but Hughton has been consistent and I think this is a big opportunity for local players to get into the national team,” he told Footballghana.
“I pray he gets some talents in his scouting activities so we can get four or five players in his squad in subsequent call ups.”
“Previously, the focus was on the foreign players but the narrative has changed under Hughton. Now players are being monitored and it gives us hope that definitely those playing at home will be given a chance. It will also give local players a fair opportunity in call ups.”
