Heart of Lions head coach Bashir Hayford has been handed a five-match suspension by the Ghana Football Association’s Disciplinary Committee, following incidents of unsporting behavior towards match officials.
The suspension, issued as part of disciplinary measures for misconduct, comes after Hayford allegedly directed verbal abuse at referees during Heart of Lions' matchday 7 encounter with Karela United at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale.
In addition to the suspension, Hayford has been fined GHC 5,000 and issued a stern warning that further infractions could lead to harsher penalties. This ruling means that Hayford will miss key fixtures against Berekum Chelsea, Accra Lions, Legon Cities, Samartex, and Basake Holy Stars. He is expected to return to the touchline on December 24 when Heart of Lions face Young Apostles.
Hayford’s absence presents a significant challenge for Heart of Lions as they seek to build on recent successes, including a recent 1-0 victory over his former club, Asante Kotoko, achieved just one day before the Disciplinary Committee’s verdict.
This period without Hayford's guidance on the sidelines could test the team's resilience and adaptability as they aim to maintain momentum in his absence.
The club has yet to release an official statement regarding Hayford’s suspension or any interim coaching arrangements for the affected matches.
