Quick fixes not the solution to Black Stars' problems

The usual euphoria surrounding Black Stars' matches was this time around missing. The entire country was silent with people going about their daily routines without paying attention to the match between Ghana and Sudan.

The Black Stars, on countless occasions, have broken the hearts of Ghanaians with their disappointing performances; hence, the indifference about the encounter against Sudan.

As expected, the team delivered a lackluster performance culminating in their loss, thereby deepening the woes of the team.

Before the two games against Sudan, in a no-holds-barred admonition of the current players of Black Stars, the Ghana Football Association's President, Mr. Kurt Okraku told them some home truths they needed to hear. He questioned the commitment of the players in dying for the flag of Ghana. Though I agree with most of the things he said, they should have been said in-camera.

He, however, forgot to add that the leadership of the Ghana Football Association has contributed enormously to the gloom being experienced by the team.

This current Football Association is not interested in grooming players to seamlessly fill the void that will be created in the team as a result of either injury or suspension. They are preoccupied with globetrotting, and shopping for any player with a little Ghanaian connection.

Most of these players who are not selected by their countries of birth are given all the comfort they deserve to acclimatize, as against local breeds who are given the boot without even playing a match. These foreign breeds, after a few unimpressive appearances for the team, disappear into oblivion, and the vicious cycle continues.

There is a need to revamp the league with money, technology, competent coaches, referees, etc, if the team wants to return to its glory days.

Colts football, which served as the nursery for grooming talents, needs to be revived because it is currently suffering from stunted growth, thereby denying the premier league clubs quality players.

Also, letting Coach Kwesi Appiah go was our undoing, and the controversies surrounding the appointment of Otto Addo did not help. The FA shot itself in the foot by appointing Otto Addo who did not meet the criteria set by the FA. His performance after his appointment is there for all to see. The Kurt Okraku-led administration should offer an unqualified apology to Ghanaians for overlooking an experienced Kwesi Appiah and giving the job to a novice.

As a nation, we have lost our standing in world football. There should be a concerted effort by stakeholders of the game to revive it. Bold decisions have to be taken to attain our lost glory by sacrificing anyone who is an impediment. Other countries have done it, and are currently reaping the results. It will not be wrong to learn at their feet if it becomes necessary.

The Black Stars will be great again!