GFA sets AFCON and World Cup targets for Appiah

Accra, April 17, GNA – The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has set the ultimate of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations as one of the primary targets for new Black Stars head coach Kwasi Appiah.

According to the GFA President, Kwesi Nyantakyi, his outfit has signed a two-year renewable contract with Appiah, which has qualification and a semi final berth for the Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup as the other target.

The Black Stars will face Lesotho, Sudan and Zambia in the qualifying series in the first stage of the qualifying series for 2014 FIFA World Cup.

The GFA President has meanwhile said the FA has reposed confidence in the abilities of the former national captain, who becomes the first indigene since 2001 to assume the technical reigns of the senior national team.

“We have no doubt he will carry out his duties to the best of his abilities. We (GFA) are committed to supporting him to succeed.

“We will also put no impediment on his way and will give him the required support to ensure his success,” Nyantakyi told the media during the unveiling of Appiah on Tuesday at the GFA Secretariat.

The financial detail of the coach's contract was, however, not made public due to a 'supposedly' confidentiality clause in the contract between the two parties.

Appiah on his part expressed belief in his abilities to meet the two targets spelt out in his contract.

“I'm a man of few words and my job is cut out. I believe I can do it with the support of the GFA and all Ghanaians. I will do my best and will never let you down.”

The Asante Kotoko legend has had two previous stints as deputy coach of the Black Stars from 1999-2000 and 2008-2012.

Appiah's first assignment will be against Lesotho in the qualifier for Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup on June 1 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

GNA