Nii Ayi Bonte II, reveals how he discovered Stephen Appiah

Nii Ayi Bonte II, the Gbese Mantse, has revealed how he plucked former Black Stars captain, Stephen Appiah, from the colts football and ushered him into the colours of Accra Hearts of Oak in the early 90’s.

Nii Ayi Bonte II, who made the chilling revelation, when the player paid a courtesy call on him in his palace to officially inform him for the Dinner and Testimonial Match next month said, he saw Appiah playing for Mighty Victory against club Cowlane Babies at the Hearts Park, near the Department of National Lotteries, years back.

According to Nii Ayi Bonte he was marvelled the talents of the young player and sent former Hearts of Oak defensive pillar Emmanuel Armah Senegal to Appiah to invite him over to his residence for a discussion.

“When he came I told him I wanted him to play for Hearts of Oak and he was surprised because he felt the time was not ripe. But I encouraged him to play for Hearts.

“All along I was confident he was going to be a great player and by the grace of God, what I saw in him years back has indeed materialised.

“He was full of talent and I could not ignore him so I decided to pull him from Colts to Premier League.

“I am happy today, the player contributed to the qualification of the Black Stars to the 2006 FIFA World Cup.”

According to Nii Ayi Bonte, Appiah, was like a son to him because the former captain stayed with for during his formative years and he was proud of his achievements.