Dr. Randy Abbey, a member of the Ghana FA Executive Committee, has responded to critics who have been blaming the association for the poor state of local powerhouses Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak.
The leadership of the Ghana Football Association has faced significant criticism for the underwhelming performances of these two teams.
Both Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak have struggled to make any impact in Africa’s top-tier club competitions and have experienced a prolonged period of decline both domestically and internationally.
Critics have been pointing fingers at the GFA for the dismal condition of these iconic clubs. However, Dr. Randy Abbey, an EXCO member, has hit back at sports journalists, questioning their understanding of the situation.
“Sometimes people ask questions and we must help them understand. Does the GFA run Kotoko and Hearts? Is the GFA responsible for appointing the Board of directors for the clubs or CEOs for the clubs?
“Is the GFA responsible for the Circles and the Chapters? So what are we talking about?
“Most often the GFA, the GFA ! but clubs are run by individuals and entities. They appoint their CEOs, make their structures, and run their clubs how they want.
“If the clubs are not doing well, what has that got to do with the GFA? I’m asking you, you live here.” Randy Abbey said on Kessben TV.
Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak, the two most prominent Ghanaian clubs, are currently experiencing a decline in their historical significance, with no apparent resolution to their struggles in sight.