Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member Dr Randy Abbey has responded to the criticism surrounding Black Stars coach Chris Hughton, clarifying that there is an “unwarranted impression” of the GFA being against him.
This comes after Abbey’s public remarks about Hughton needing to improve following one win in three games since his appointment.
Abbey’s statement followed similar sentiments expressed by George Amoako, who remarked that the Black Stars’ performance under Hughton had not been impressive.
Additionally, Black Stars team manager Ameenu Shardow suggested that Ghana might have been better off with Otto Addo in charge, although he acknowledged Hughton’s current leadership.
Their remarks have been interpreted as implying that the GFA holds a negative view towards the former Premier League manager and desires his removal from the position. However, Abbey claims that this is not the case.
“There is an unwarranted impression that there is a gang up against Chris Hughton,” he told Accra-based Original FM.
“I have only watched one of Chris Hughton’s games, but from what I gather from commentary, everyone, including himself, agrees we need to improve.”
“The Ghana Football Association Executive Council has not discussed Chris Hughton as an agenda,” Abbey added, refuting claims that the GFA has been planning to replace Hughton.
Hughton was appointed as the coach in February and has just one win and two goals scored in three games.
Black Stars return to action in September against the Central African Republic in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. A positive result will see Ghana qualify for next year’s tournament in Ivory Coast.
