Hearts of Oak: Aboubakar Ouattara praises players commitment ahead of Asante Kotoko showdown

Hearts of Oak coach, Aboubakar Ouattara has commended the dedication of his players, saying they are more committed and determined than last season’s team.

Ouattara endured a difficult debut season, barely avoiding relegation with a final-day victory over Bechem United that secured a 14th-place finish. They had a total of 33 points, drew 12 and lost 11 games.

Speaking to the media ahead of their game against Asante Kotoko at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday, the Ivorian manager praised the players' positive attitude and performances.

"Every time, we are motivated, and this season, we’ve played the hard matches before Kotoko. The venues which are difficult to get points to, we made it," Ouattara said.

"For the players, and me particularly, we need to play well first of all and possibly get the three points, or bring one point. And still, now, we are ahead of them."

They currently sit sixth on the league table with 19 points, one point ahead of their rivals Kotoko, who occupy seventh place.

The much-anticipated match will kick off at 15:00 GMT.