Give Stephen National Support

Ex-Accra Hearts of Oak chairman, Nii Ayi Bonte II, has called for national support for the impending Dinner and Testimonial match in honour of former Black Stars captain, Stephen Appiah next month.

Appiah, will on June 26, be honoured at a special dinner and fundraising event at the State Banquet Hall in Accra followed by a testimonial match at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday, June 27.

During a courtesy call on him last Tuesday to officially invite him for the two events, the former football administrator said Appiah has contributed his quota to the development of football and deserves support from the nation as he officially brings his illustrious career to an end.

According to Nii Ayi Bonte II, the role of Stephen Appiah in Ghana’s first ever qualification to the 2006 FIFA World Cup cannot be underestimated, adding that, there was the need for the entire nation to support him.

“This is not about NDC, NPP, CPP or any political party but an opportunity to honour a son of Ghana who has contributed to the development of football in Ghana.

“The dinner and testimonial match should be seen as national events and be given the needed attention. I call on all Ghanaians to fill the stands on June 27, to support Stephen Appiah,” he stated.

Nii Ayi Bonte II, praised Stephen Appiah for living up to his talents and aspirations, after he discovered him during a colts match at the Hearts training grounds at the Department of National Lotteries Park.

“When I saw him play in a colts match at the Lotteries Park, I saw a lot of talent in him. I knew his future was bright and with the needed push he could go higher.

Appiah also expressed appreciation to Nii Ayi Bonte II for nurturing him from his boyhood days till he became a professional.

The former captain said, he owes the successes in his career to Nii Ayi Bonte II as he provided him with the opportunity to exhibit his talents and developed as a player.