Hearts of Oak’s new coach, Aboubakar Ouattara, says their focus is not to win the league but to attain a respectable position as the league progresses.
The Ivorian gaffer made a brilliant start to his reign after thumping Real Tamale United 3-0 in a match-day 18 encounter of the 2023–24 Ghana Premier League.
Speaking in a post-match interview, coach Ouattara revealed that he had not been tasked by the board to win the league as his project was more long term.
“I have not been tasked by the board to win the league. We are trying to move the team up to a respectable position.
“We can talk about winning the league at the end of the season, but now we are trying to survive,” he said.
When asked about his observations since he was appointed head coach, Ouattara stated that he was overwhelmed with the number of talented players in the Hearts set-up but had to instill some discipline.
“The boys have talent, but the only difference is discipline. Just like diamonds, if you don’t polish them, you wouldn’t get any value, and polishing these players is not easy.
“I urge the supporters to support the club because it belongs to them, and they should be patient and let all work go into pushing this talent to a high level,” he said.
Sharing his thoughts about the match, which saw Hearts of Oak dominate play and create lots of chances, Ouattara said he was not perturbed by the missed opportunity but was happy that they secured maximum points.
“I am happy about getting the points rather than the squandered chances. For me, I will be happy if we score one goal each in our next nine matches,” he said.
Hearts of Oak, who are placed 9th on the league table, will face Nsoatreman FC on matchday 19 of the 2023–24 season at the Nana Koramasah Sports Complex.
GNA
WE
26 Feb. 2024
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