Bashir Hayford, former Black Queens coach, advocates for the retention of Chris Hughton as the head coach of the Black Stars, suggesting that a long-term contract is essential for him to construct a formidable team.
His remarks follow Ghana’s 1-0 defeat against Comoros in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where Myziane Maolida’s solo goal secured the opposing team three points.
Despite growing calls for the dismissal of the former Premier League manager, Bashir Hayford, also a former head coach for Asante Kotoko and AshantiGold SC, contends that Chris Hughton is not the root cause of the team’s challenges.
Instead, he emphasizes a deficiency in teamwork, asserting that Hughton should not face termination but rather be entrusted with a long-term contract.
“The problem with the Black Stars is not the coach, but rather a lack of teamwork,” Hayford expressed to Kumasi-based Akoma FM. “He should not be fired but must be given a long-term contract,” he added.
Ghana secured a 1-0 victory against Madagascar in their group opener at the Baba Yara Stadium, with Inaki Williams scoring a crucial 95th-minute goal. However, the recent defeat to Comoros places Ghana in the third spot with three points.
Looking ahead, Chris Hughton and his team will redirect their focus to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled for next year in Ivory Coast.