Time for Kevin’s critics to spare him the flak

The simple idea of calling on critics of Kevin-Prince Boateng to spare him the flak is one that can easily spark an argument.

The 26-year-old has had long-standing critics ever since announcing his exit from the Black Stars in 2011, to making his recent return. He has been described as an “opportunist” by many who believe the midfielder was only interested in taking the shine at major competitions like the World Cup.

His injuries which coincided with Ghana’s recent matches with Zambia and the first leg of the World Cup qualifying play-off with Egypt even won him more doubters in Ghana, amidst suggestions it was a deliberate attempt to avoid those fixtures.

It took the Ghana FA president to issue the first defence before head coach Kwesi Appiah also joined the fray, subsequently. Kwesi Nyantakyi argued that it was unfair to criticise the Schalke 04 star, claiming there was no way Boateng could feign injuries.

Coach Appiah also added that he had known since his days as assistant trainer that the German-born Ghanaian had been battling chronic injuries. The player himself finally broke his silence on the long-standing issue about his lack of commitment towards the cause of the Black Stars.

The former AC Milan midfielder did not mince words in his response when he was interviewed by the BBC.

"Of course it's a bad situation because every time there is a national team game I have a problem. I can't come if I'm injured. I want to be 100 per cent; I want to give everything when I come to play for Ghana,” Boateng stated. He added: "I'm always happy when I'm called to play for the Black Stars, that's why I'm here. I'm part of the team and the coach, the (Ghana FA) president and the players know I'm always proud to be here.

"Social networking sites are an easy way to insult people. People have sent me messages saying that they are praying for me to get injured. Such messages are not nice because I love playing football; I love playing for my club, I love playing football for Ghana."

Clearly, Boateng was just in the mood to pour his heart out. After being challenged by many to prove his commitment, he also ends up indirectly throwing a challenge to his critics.

His reply, without doubt would only encourage his critics to monitor the turn of events from now till the Mundial, and thereafter to really examine whether his defence is not a mere rhetoric.

Boateng’s qualities have never been in doubt. His display at the 2010 World Cup after switching nationality from Germany left an indelible mark on the minds of most Ghanaian football followers.