Former captain of the Black Stars, Stephen Appiah has disclosed the significant role Mohammed Gargo, his former teammate played in launching his professional football career in Italy.
Tonaldo as he is affectionately called shared the heartwarming story at the 9th EMY Africa Awards during his acceptance speech, where he was honoured with the 'Continental Sports Icon Award'.
Cogitating on his heydays in Europe, Appiah narrated how Gargo then in the same team (Udinese), faked an injury during a friendly match to allow him to showcase what he's got to offer with the senior side.
“You still don’t understand. Anytime I see you, I bow. I bow because I appreciate what you have done in my life,” Appiah said during his speech. “I was with the junior side and hadn’t signed my contract yet. We played a friendly game against Sturm Graz, and in the 80th minute, Gargo Mohammed faked an injury for me to have the chance and feel of the game.”
Seizing the chance, Appiah scored a breathtaking 25-yard goal just 10 minutes after climbing off the bench, with his stunning performance earning him media attention and cleared the way for him to sign his first professional contract with Udinese.
“The next day, I saw myself in the newspapers,” Appiah narrated.
“I called Gargo and told him about the article. He invited me to his house and said, ‘Close the door and don’t let him run away.’ Two days later, I signed my first international contract.”
By: Pascal Amoah
