Mills treats Stars to luncheon ahead of World Cup tournament

Accra, May 22, GNA - Ghana's Black Stars on Saturday received a presidential luncheon treat at the Osu Castle, Accra to pep them up for victory in the tournament as they are poised to clinch gold in the forthcoming World Cup tournament that comes off a few weeks away in South Africa.

President John Evans Atta Mills said enthusiastically to the players, "I'm happy, and it is both a privilege and honour to host you; we believe with your calibre, you'll play and win and bring the cup to Ghana," when he hosted the team to the luncheon ahead of their departure on Sunday to play international friendly games before the take off of the tournament. "I assure you that I'm behind you, the Government of Ghana and the people of Ghana are solidly behind you," the President said and announced that the Sports Ministry and other stakeholders have agreed on a very attractive package for the gallant Stars.

President Mills, a former Sports Administrator, pledged that he would be in South Africa for the opening match of the World Cup to give the Stars the moral support needed to propel them for the ultimate. Quite a number of Ghanaians would also be in South Africa to support the Stars who are expected to put smiles on the faces of the Ghanaian sporting public.

The President, however, advised the players to play by the rules, avoid being provoked and to avoid actions that would attract red and yellow cards to reduce their numbers on the field of play. President Mills reiterated that numbers were very important in football, and playing by the rules till the blow of the final whistle was the mark of a true sportsman.

He blessed the team and wished well and a safe journey. "We'll bring the cup because God is on our side," President Mills said. Black Stars spokesperson, John Paintsil donated the jersey he wore for Fulham to play in the European Championship League to the President, and assured the nation that they would play excellently to prove to the world that they deserved to be at the World Cup. Mr Kwesi Nyantakyi, President of the Ghana Football Association expressed appreciation to President Mills for his words and acts of encouragement.

He also presented a copy of a book launched by coach Sellas Tetteh, "The Success Story of Sellas Tetteh, the 2009 award winning African coach" to President Mills.

Ms Akua Sena Dansua Minister of Youth and Sports said: "We assure the nation that the boys will do better than they did in Germany 2006." The Stars would engage in friendly matches in France, the Netherlands and England before proceeding to South Africa for the commencement of the World Cup.