Black Stars Team Manager Ameenu Shardow has hailed the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) decision to honour Asamoah Gyan with a testimonial match, describing the move as “long overdue” for a player who gave his all to the national team.
The GFA confirmed on Tuesday, November 4, that plans are underway to stage a testimonial game for the former Sunderland and Stade Rennais striker, in recognition of his immense contribution to Ghanaian football.
Gyan, who retired from professional football in 2023 at the age of 37, remains Ghana’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals in 109 appearances, a record that still stands unchallenged.
Speaking to Joy Sports, Shardow emphasised the importance of the testimonial match, saying it reflects a nation that values its heroes.
“It’s extremely important because, aside from the fact that we are using it to honour a distinguished personality, somebody who has given everything for this nation, this also serves as a sign of a nation that appreciates its heroes,” Shardow said.
He added that such recognition not only celebrates the past but also motivates current and future generations of footballers.
“It encourages other players to also give their best because they know, at the end of the day, they will be well appreciated,” he continued.
Shardow also applauded the GFA for taking the initiative, rather than leaving the organisation of such tributes to private individuals.
“For me, this is long overdue. I’m very happy that finally, the GFA is taking the lead in getting these things done and not leaving them in the hands of private individuals,” he added.
Gyan, who featured in the 2006, 2010, and 2014 FIFA World Cups, held in Germany, South Africa, and Brazil respectively, remains Africa’s top scorer in World Cup history, with six goals on football’s biggest stage.
Since hanging up his boots, the former Black Stars captain has been actively involved with the Black Stars in unofficial capacities, working alongside his former teammate Stephen Appiah, who currently serves as the Deputy Chair of the Black Stars Management Committee.
By: Pascal Amoah
