The representative of newly appointed Black Stars head coach Avram Grant, Saif Rubie says the Israeli tactician has no issues with money with regard to the Ghana job.
In an exclusive interview with footy-ghana.com, Rubie noted that Grant once worked for six months at Portsmouth without pay, adding that his stance on money is one of the reasons why the Ghana Football Association was encouraged to move forward with talks on the job.
“Avram worked at Portsmouth for six months without pay and the club was in administration at the time. Even so, he took Portsmouth to the FA Cup final and had Kevin Prince Boateng not missed that penalty against Chelsea, he would have won the FA Cup. Money has never been an issue for Avram and that encouraged the GFA to continue talks with us.”
Dubai-based Rubie denied that Grant had ever asked for a $150,000-a-month package, noting that the former Chelsea head coach has always wanted to work with an African team.
“Avram never mentioned any figures during his interview and so no figure was ever mentioned. He has always wanted to work with African players in an African nation and that was his biggest attraction.”
Grant’s representative also told footy-ghana.com that the potential of the Black Stars attracted Grant to the job, adding that despite the poor performance in Brazil, Grant will work on building a strong team from the talented individuals available.
“Ghana has some hugely talented players and from Brazil, it was obvious that all that is needed is to mould a good team with these gifted players. Avram is highly tactical and will plan for each game as it comes.”
Rubie revealed that the pressure of handling the Black Stars is not a challenge to his client, adding that it would be nothing compared to the pressure of working for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovic, despite the high expectations.
“Coaching the Black Stars will bring pressure, but Avram can handle it. Besides, with all the high expectations as he coaches Ghana, it is nothing compared to the pressure of working under Roman Abramovich at Stamford Bridge. He is looking forward to it.”
Rubie also confirmed that financial terms and length of contract are yet to be discussed with the GFA, noting that he anticipates a speedy agreement on both fronts.
