Former Ghanaian international Don Bortey has revealed a missed opportunity on scouting fixtures with some renowned European during his peak era in his football profession.
The midfielder started his career in the year 2000 with the Tema-based GHAPOHA FC after excelling at the 1999 FIFA U-17 World Championship in New Zealand. According to him, he became ‘hot cake’ when agents realized his zeal after playing 6 games and scoring 3 goals.
“It started during the U-17 world cup when agents expressed their interest in signing us to some English Football Clubs like, Manchester United, and Arsenal.”
He further disclosed in an interview, an instance when former captain and coach of Arsenal arrived on the shores of Ghana purposely to recruit him into their club. Unfortunately, he claimed his managers at GHAPOHA FC did not permit it with an excuse that he was a “small boy” and did not have an agent to help sign him on.
“I remember when Tony Adams, then captain, and Arsene Wenger, Arsenal coach came to Ghana because of me after the U-17. But talks with my mangers at GHAPOHA FC proved futile with the excuse that I was a small boy and did not have an agent to work with.”
The experienced winger said he was discouraged at the turn of events but that did not dissuade him from spurring on.
Don Bortey said despite the many setbacks, he is still passionate about football and is ready to join a football club that will need his skillfulness on their team.
