I don’t want to be just another Black Stars coach - Akonnor

C.K Akonnor is settling well into his role as Ghana boss despite the early challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Akonnor was preparing for his first two games in charge of the side in two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers when the virus stopped all sporting events in its tracks.

And not knowing when the team will play, the fate of the next Afcon is proving a source of frustration for him but he says that has not stopped him from working.

“I am still working,” he told TV3. “I’ve been keeping track of players, in constant communication with them and waiting for when we have the go ahead.”

Akonnor’s appointment has triggered significant commentary especially on his relationship with players but he says his style is straight forward.

“Yes, I am a disciplined person. My time, I don’t joke with it. When we agree 5 and you show up at 6 then it’s a problem and I won’t shy away from letting you know. People tend to view that as quick temper and arrogance,” he said.

The former Wolfsburg captain has a strong relationship with Ghana at international level representing the country at different stages except the U-17.

He trialed and failed to get into the U-17 side but was part of the Ghana side that finished as runners-up at the 1993 World U-20 championship in Australia.

He then represented Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994, the Olympic Games in 1996 as well as the Africa Cup of Nations in 1996, 1998 and 2000.

Now he wants to make a mark as the boss.

“It’s not about me. It’s about us. Over 30 years we’ve not won Afcon. I don’t want to be just another coach who comes in to manage Ghana and goes and then it’s the same story. I want us to work and make an impact, be relevant.”