CONFIRMED: Avram Grant Named New Black Stars Coach

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed Avram Grant as the new coach of the Black Stars effective December 1, on a two year deal. GFA president, Kwesi Nyantakyi told a press conference in Accra that they have reached a deal with the Israeli and set him the target of 'doing well' at the 2015 Nations Cup which will be his first major assignment. The former Chelsea boss has also been set the target of winning the Nations Cup two years later in 2017 and generally help streamline the structures of the technical unit of the Ghana Football Association. Nyantakyi admitted not winning the Nations Cup (2015) 'will not be considered an achievement' but said they took into consideration the period he will have with the team before the tournament. "We took into consideration the fact that he is taking charge of the team at a late time. We should be measured in our expectations and not set up unrealistic target so we cannot ask Grant to win the Nations Cup," Nyantakyi said. Grant's appointment had been held up by his Israeli citizenship which could hinder access to some North African countries but Nyantakyi noted they [GFA] have worked a way around it. "He has proposed a means which should be finalised in two months. We have also spoken to the Minister and think we will be able to deal with it."