Ex- Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah is optimistic his former playing mate John Paintsil will excel at his new club Kaizer Chiefs after his appointment as the assistant coach of the Johannesburg based club.
The 35-year-old former West Ham right-back called time on his playing career last week after having successful stints with many clubs in Abroad.
Paintsil was on Monday, June 27, confirmed as the assistant manager of the Amakhosis club at a press conference.
Stephen Appiah has however, expressed his elation after seeing his former playing mate engaged in a coaching role and has backed him to succeed.Appiah also touted Paintsil's character describing him as an an intelligent guy.
"Seeing John Paintsil and knowing him,he is a guy who has the character,although you see him like that,I have been with him for so many years,we played together," Appiah spoke to Accra-based Class FM.
"I remember when i was the captain for the Black Stars,at times, when things are tough,i go to him and i ask him his oppinion and all that ,he is a clever guy, so i think he can handle the pressure,"
He added: "Kaizer Chiefs ,they know what they have seen in John Paintsil,that is why they have given him the job,so i know that he will do well,"
"I am not surprised, i know John Paintsil is a very good guy and i am happy for him and not only is he going to work for a small team,but a big club like Kaizer Chiefs"
"I think before they appointed him as the assistant coach,they interviewed him and they have seen something in John Paintsil,so I am really happy for him,"
John Paintsil last played for Maritzburg United in South Africa before hanging up his boots.
