Accra, April 18, GNA - Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club might not have access to the services of some of their key players when they lock horns with Tunisian giants, Etoile Du' Sahel in the first leg of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) Champions League game at the Obuasi Len Clay Stadium on Saturday.
Notable among the injured players are midfielders Eric Nyarko and Francis Bossman as well as defender Michael Donkor.
Nyarko is said to be down with a thigh injury, which he sustained in the Top Four game against Kotoko at the El Wak Stadium in Accra whilst Bossman is reported to be battling with hernia with Donkor down with malaria.
Information gathered by the GNA Sports from the camp reveals that the Francis Oti Akenten led technical team might be compelled to rule the players out if their conditions do not improve by the close of Thursday. Striker Ekow Ghansah is also doubtful for the game on Saturday thus leaving the technical team with limited choices in some areas. All the players are however undergoing treatment from the medical team in a bid to get them fit for the game.
The injured players have played instrumental roles in the continental campaign of the club so far and their absence is likely to create a hole in their respective positions.
Coach Francis Oti Akenten told the GNA Sports that the absence of the three players would be a major blow to the team since they are key components of his squad.
"Their absence will not only be a blow but a very big one to my tactical plans as they have been consistent in the squad since the campaign begun".
Coach Oti-Akenten nevertheless said very good replacements will be found to take the place of the injured players should they fail to pass the fitness test.
He told the GNA Sports that other players are capable of standing in for the quartet and "I believe they can live up to expectation on the 'D' day".
Touching on the chances of the team against their old foes, the coach expressed optimism of success saying they have prepared adequately for the game.
He said they are hoping for a comfortable win that will enhance their chances of advancing to the money zone for the first time in six years.
According to the coach, advancing to the next stage is the priority of the team and his playing body are aware of the fact hence they are going all out to achieve the ultimate.
He, however, noted that it will not be achieved on a silver plate but added that "with God all things are possible". Coach Oti-Akenten called on the followers of the Club to come out in their numbers and 'throw their weight' behind the team to ensure total victory. 18 April 06
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