Former Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Osei Kuffour has made a surprise declaration that Asante Kotoko cheer song motivated him more during his playing days than the famous Hearts of Oak's.

Hearts of Oak's long-standing cheer song 'Arise, Arose, Arisen is widely regarded as the best club anthem in the local league.

Despite representing the Phobians for seven years, Kuffour says it is the Porcupine Warriors cheer song which was composed by music legend Pat Thomas was more motivating to him during his playing days.

“I feel good listening to the Kumasi Asante Kotoko song. I love it because I love the team too.

“When we are going to play a match and I listen to that tune it arises my spirit”, the striker told Ashh FM.

He added, “When I listen to that song and I'm on the pitch it helps me give my all to the team since I have been inspired by the song”.

The midfield maestro helped Hearts of Oak to win numerous league titles, the CAF Champions League, CAF Confederation Cup, and the Super Cup.

Kuffour left the club to join Iranian side Tractor Sazi in 2005 before returning to Ghana to sign for AshantiGold SC and later spent one season with Asante Kotoko.

He gained 31 caps for Ghana and was picked for the squad at both the 2000 and 2002 Africa Cup of Nations, also featuring in the 1996 Summer Olympics football tournament.