Last Tuesday, Asante Kotoko announced the huge signing of former Accra Lions goal custodian, putting pen to paper on a 3-year- deal with the Porcupine Warriors.
But who is Frederick Asare? And what can Kotoko fans expect when the 23-year-old eventually takes up permanent residence between the sticks in Kumasi?
Let's find out...
1. He's a commanding presence with a good kick on him
Asare is softly spoken off the pitch, but you can't shut him up once you get him between the sticks.
He is renowned for his commanding voice in the area, and with an appreciable height, he's a formidable presence when it comes to defending crosses.
However, the best part of his game is probably his distribution. Asare's ability to pick his head up and distribute the ball quickly to his side's forwards has been a feature of his play since establishing himself in the Accra Lions side, and the Kotoko faithful will no doubt see his footballing talents as a big asset given the pace and intelligence of Mfegues and Mbella.
2. Razak Abalora is his idol
If you’re looking for inspiration as a goalkeeper, there are few ones locally one can pick. For Asare, it is former Kotoko goalkeeper Razak Abalora. He is quoted as saying: “I have the opportunity to learn from several goalkeepers but I have great affection for Razak Abalora... it seems to me that he is a gentleman on and off the field.”
3. He’s rated very highly at Kotoko and could quick become first choice
With a shake up in the goalkeeping department likely in the upcoming season, Asare could be in line to get plenty more minutes for Kotoko.
Because he is a new player, you'd assume he will pick a place on the bench and work his way through the ranks. Don't be deceived. He is in to pick the number one spot.
4. Has represented Ghana's national teams.
Though he's yet to make his professional debut, Asare has certainly made an impact at the national level.
He was part of the Under-20 Ghana side that participated in the 2020 WAFU Zone B tournament - though he was a reserve for the tournament as compatriot Ibrahim Danlad took the number one spot.
Danlad went on to win the goalkeeper of the tournament award but Asare's inclusion in the squad still shows that he has the potential to be a top stopper.
6.He is an old student of Nungua Senior High School
Many are astonished and overwhelmed with bewildered at his writing prowess. I did a sleuthing and found out that he schooled at the Nungua Senior High School.
