Stephen Appiah
Retired Black Stars captain Stephen Tornado Appiah has thanked Ghanaians for their massive turn out during his ceremonial farewell game.
The former Black Stars captain held off tears in a farewell game that featured a selected XI against the Black Stars of Ghana.
The former Juventus midfielder reminded many of his antics, with a sumptuous free kick that zoomed past Razak Braimah in post for the Back Stars.
Addressing the crowed after the final whistle, Stephen Appiah said, “I wasn’t expecting this crowd but Ghanaians have shown their love and it doesn’t surprise me. Right from my colts days, they have always shown me love and respect and I want to thank all Ghanaians for their love and prayers. Without them I couldn’t have reached this far. I thank them.”
The captain then explained why he has been the most loved player in the national team.
“Well I think the Stephen of today is the same Stephen Appiah 30 years ago. I think what makes us different is our characters. People get a little and they start thinking that they are above everybody but I put my feet down till today and I think that is why everybody is talking.
“When they talk, they talk about discipline and humility and I think is something I have to continue doing. In real life, that is the way I am. I don’t force myself on people”.
Appiah concluded by urging younger players to play for passion and not for money.
“What I want to tell them is they shouldn’t rush in life. They should let the passion come before they start thinking of money. They should respect their elders, respect their coaches, follow instructions and work harder”.
Stephen Appiah will always be remembered for being the first captain to qualify Ghana for the World Cup.
The ceremonial game featured African Stars like Samuel Etoo and Emmanuel Adebayor in an emotional last game for the former Hearts of Oak, Juventus, Parma, Cessena and Fernabahce midfielder.
