Former Black Stars midfielder Laryea Kingston says the work of ex- Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah will forever be remembered.
Kingston, a playmate of Appiah, considered playing alongside the influential skipper as a great honour, as a result of his peculiar leadership qualities.
Speaking at the launch of Appiah’s testimonial match at the Accra International Conference Centre on Monday, he stated, “It was a great honour playing alongside a great player like Appiah, he was a motivator and a great leader.
“We will forever miss him, but I would like to urge him to get close to the GFA so he can extend his experience with them for the good of the game.”
Indeed, a foretaste of the testimonial match, fixed for June 27 at the Accra Stadium, characterized the highly patronized launch.
All who matter in football in the country, from past and present GFA presidents, through Ministers, business magnates, celebrities to ball boys were present to show Appiah some love.
The former Udinese midfielder described playing for the national team as well as captaining it as the most cherished moment in his two decade football career.
Appiah, capped 64 times with 14 goals, gave the assurance that he had been in touch with his playmates in Italy (Udinese/Juventus/Parma/Brescia/ Bologna) where he started his international career, and in Serbia (Vojvodina), where he ended it, and they had promised to fly down to grace the event.
Ghana FA president Kwesi Nyantakyi spoke highly of Appiah saying,“He gave his all and is one of the captains who distinguished themselves.
“In fact, he is the most successful captain. I have no doubt that whatever role you will be given after football, you will distinguish yourself. Issa Hayatou often refers to him as the captain who plays and never gets tired.”
Youth and Sports Minister, Dr Mustapha Ahmed, pointed out that the nation will remember him for his service and contribution to the development of football in the country.
He therefore called on corporate Ghana to rally behind the former Black Stars captain as he officially hangs his boots.
Preceding the ceremonial game, put together by Primeval Media, is a dinner at the Banquet Hall of the State House.
Former FA chief Nana Sam Brew Butler chaired the launch.
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