Former Ghana defender Joe Addo has revealed the extent of Abedi Ayew Pele’s popularity and stardom.

At the peak of his career, Pele was widely admired by colleague footballers and pundits who were all eager to catch a glimpse of the nimble footed Olympic Marseille star.

With three African best player awards, Pele is legitimately regarded as the best this country has produced and Addo who shared dressing room with the icon has revealed how his fame gave the Stars an added advantage.

Addo on Joy FM recalled how opposing players and referees used to line up for autographs and pictures.

He also commended Abedi Pele for the impact he had on his career.

“I remember in our match against Gabon, the Gabonese players came into the dressing room to take pictures with Abedi Pele. Even the referees wanted to take pictures with him. That was how great he was. He was graceful. He was always willing to take pictures but, on the pitch,, he was always serious.”

“Abedi Pele helped me a lot as a professional. I went to study in school but I was happy that I came back to play professional football. Abedi really helped me in my professional career.”

Abedi was part of the team that won Ghana’s last Africa Cup of Nations title.