Former Accra Hearts of Oak midfielder, Joseph Tagoe has said emphatically that in terms of quality, arch rivals Asante Kotoko is above his former club.
According to Tagoe, his statement is not based on the fact that he is a former player or being a staunch Phobian.
He lauded the qualities of Karim Zito, adding that the gaffer has changed the pattern of Kotoko since his arrival.
“Kotoko’s quality is above, not because i am a former player of Hearts, or i am a Phobian. When you watched Kotoko play, when Zito came, I witnessed changes in the team. Because Kotoko is also a club that exposes a good player, and often you will be encouraged to play good football. But here, not because they cannot play, but because the pitches are not good for footballers. You cannot string passes, controlling the ball is difficult, then the grass is also bad,” he told LinusNartey TV in an exclusive interview.
Stressing extensively on the Ghana Premier League quality, Tagoe highlighted a few issues which needs to be addressed by the authorities.
“So most of the players face difficulties, some do not have good boots, but they still manage. When all of these are addressed, we will produce more quality,” he added.
He urged the FA to immediately find solutions to these pressing issues, adding most of these players rely solely on football to make a living and as well fend for their families.
“Let me also use this platform to appeal to the FA to improve in these areas. It is not only about the league and the bonuses that come, but tackle the real issues so more talent can be discovered. Because 90% of these players fend for their families and have to always train. So if these pitches will make the dreams of these players come to reality, then we will plead with the authorities to improve, so things will go on well for these players”, he concluded.
Hearts of Oak will lock horns with Asante Kotoko on Match Day 9 fixture at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, November 9.
The last meeting ended 2-0 in favor of Hearts of Oak during the 2025 Ghalca Top 4 in August.
Hearts sits 4th on the league table with 16 while Kotoko occupies the 8th spot with 11 points.
