Soccer News of Monday, 11 August 2003

Source: GNA

GFA confirms Bukhards dismissal

Accra, Aug 11, GNA-Mr. Ben Koufie, Chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has confirmed the termination of appointment of German coach Bukhard Ziese as the coach of the national team.

A statement signed by Mr. Koufie said that the GFA's attention has been drawn to statements made by the coach that he is still in charge of the team and even preparing his programme for discussion with the FA officials.

The statement even though not printed on the official letterhead of the GFA, as has been the case always, was confirmed by Mr. Alex Asante, an official of the FA after the GNA Sports had contacted him for confirmation following the absence of the chairman.

The statement said the termination of the coach's appointment was dated August 4, and delivered to him on even date.

According to the statement the decision to terminate the contract with the German coach was based on his performance, which the GFA considered poor and unacceptable.

The statement said for the avoidance of doubt the GFA would dispatch another letter to the coach on August 12 to confirm their decision and advised the coach to desist from representing himself as the national coach in order to avoid any embarrassment since the GFA does not recognise him in that position.

The statement added that Mr. Ziese should spare the GFA the unpleasant duty of engaging him in unnecessary debates and acrimony particularly in the media.

The chairman said the national teams would be handled by other coaches appointed by the GFA without the involvement of coach Ziese.

It would be recalled that Mr. Ziese last week told the GNA Sports in an interview that he was still in charge of the national team and denied he has been given the boot by the GFA. 11 Aug, 03