Middendorp To Quit Kotoko?
CONFUSING signals are coming from the camp of Fabulous Kumasi Asante Kotoko regarding the technical direction of the club in the coming weeks. Indications are that the romance between Kotoko and German coach, Ernst Middendorp, could come to an end soon, barring any last minute change of heart. Graphic Sports investigations have revealed that Middendorp, whose official contract with the club ended last March, has shown strong signs of leaving without an option of renewing his contract.
Though several speculative reasons could be cited for the German's desire to part ways with the club, the two most prominent could be his open criticism of the new Kotoko board and a possible more lucrative deal in Germany. Coach Middendorp's intention of not renewing his contract, according to investigations, was made known when the team travelled to Angola to play Athletico Sonangol at the one-sixteenth qualifying stage of the CAF Cup Winners Cup competition.
If it does happen, then the German will not stay around to see his cherished dream of leading Kotoko to a premiership title or a continental honour after all his rebuilding efforts.
While Middendorp will not open up to the press on the issue, Kotoko officials such as the PRO Mohammed Haruna and the Accra Representative, Kwame Amoa Bosompem, when contacted either flatly denied this development or remained evasive.
However, the presence of Scottish Ian Porterfield in the country over the past week at the invitation of Kotoko have strengthened suspicion that the Porcupine Warriors are searching for a possible replacement for the German coach. Porterfield, who was among applicants shortlisted for the job to coach the Black Stars, was not chosen for the national job.
He has, however, been seen at Kotoko matches and functions, strengthening rumours making rounds that he is in town to take over from Middendorp. Though Middendorp who joined the red-shirted side in April 2000 is yet to win the premier league title, he has chalked some remarkable local successes.
After leading the team to retain the Guinness Gala trophy last year, he also helped the side to finish second on the league table as well as win the 2001 FA Cup