Shilla Illiasu upbeat about career in Europe

Kumasi, July 9, GNA - Shilla Alhassan Illiasu, a stalwart defender of Kumasi Asante Kotoko and the national team, the Black Stars has said he was looking forward to a successful football career in Europe after his exploits at the just-ended FIFA World Cup championship in Germany.

"Having seen it all at the championship, I'm confident of making it big in Europe, if given the chance", when he interacted with the media in Kumasi on Saturday.

Illiasu said, "My aim is to replicate the sterling performance I put up in Germany and in some of the competitive leagues matches abroad".

Top European clubs, including Liverpool and Olympic Lyon are currently chasing Illiasu, who was among the few local-based players of the Stars who had the chance to participate in the quadrennial championship in Germany.

The GNA Sports gathered that the combative defender who joined Kotoko after stints with King Faisal Football Club, is currently holding discussions with the two clubs to facilitate his transfer to the club of his choice.

Illiasu, whilst attributing his sterling performance at the championship to hard work and determination, commended Ghanaians, especially President John Agyekum Kufuor and officials of the Ghana Football Association for remaining resolute towards the cause of Black Stars.

He also cited unity and discipline on the part of the players and the technical bench as the main factors that contributed to the Stars' successful campaign in Germany.

On Kotoko's CAF/MTN Champions League campaign, Illiasu was optimistic that the 91Porcupine Warriors' will win the league this year even though his participation hangs in the balance, following moves to seek his transfer to Europe.

Illiasu called on the teeming supporters of Kotoko to rally behind the team to enable the team win its first Champions League trophy.