The Captain of the Black Stars, C.K Akonnor, has described the controversy surrounding the $25,000 gift given to the Black Stars by Nigeria’s River State Governor after a world cup qualifier against Nigeria as unfortunate and embarrassing but has cautioned that there are far more important and productive issues such as Mali 2002 to focus on.

Akonnor, who was recently appointed captain of Bundeslega side VFL Wolfsburg, told JOY FM via phone from Cologne Germany, that he only read about the issue on the internet, after a friend had informed him about the controversy.

The Black Stars captain said he fully supports his team mates and cautioned that the issue should be dealt with carefully to avoid further embarrassment and de-motivation of the team.

C.K Akonnor said he is confident that with Abedi Ayew Pele’s new role as soccer ambassador, the welfare and morale of the team can only improve especially if kit sponsorship is secured for the Black Stars before Mali 2002.