Former Hearts of Oak board member, Frank Nelson, has urged the club to prioritize signing experienced, proven players as they navigate a challenging 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.
The Phobians currently sit 12th in the league with just 9 points, having managed only two wins alongside three draws and three losses. Nelson attributes much of the team’s struggle to ineffective recruitment, highlighting a need for players who have demonstrated success in the Ghana Premier League or similar high-level competitions.
“Go for players who are tried and tested, not playing for Division One or Two clubs, but players who have tasted the premiership and achieved laurels with their clubs,” Nelson advised during an interview with LUV FM.
He referenced former Hearts players such as Yaw Sakyi, who excelled at Asante Kotoko, and Eric Gawu from King Faisal, stressing that Hearts of Oak’s history is built on attracting top-tier talent. Nelson expressed doubts about whether recent signings truly meet the standards of the club, saying, “Well, I don’t think these are the best players in Ghana for Accra Hearts of Oak. Accra Hearts of Oak I know in those days is the club that goes for the best players, like going for Yaw Sakyi from Kotoko, going for Eric Gawu from King Faisal, Anthony Annan from Hasaacas.”
While some fans have called for coach Ouattara’s dismissal, Nelson believes the issues go beyond coaching, urging a broader view of the club’s challenges. “First of all, I won’t blame the coach or the playing body, but we need to look at the problem holistically and know exactly where it’s coming from,” he said.
Inconsistent recruitment is another issue Nelson highlighted, pointing out that a lack of continuity harms team chemistry. He criticized the recent influx of approximately 15 new players, saying, “I don’t think we should wait till the end of the season to do a wholesale recruitment as we did this season. Inconsistent recruitment leads to a lack of team chemistry.”
Nelson emphasized the need for a dedicated scouting team to identify high-caliber players well in advance. “We need a solid scouting team that can help us scout the best players. It’s essential for the long-term success of the club.”
Hearts of Oak will aim to improve their standing as they face Medeama SC at the TNA Park in their upcoming Matchday 9 fixture.
