TinklerTargets To Restore Kotoko’s African Glory
Newly appointed Asante Kotoko head coach Eric Tinkler has pledged to restore the club’s status as one of Africa’s football powerhouses while laying the foundation for a sustainable player development system capable of producing talents for the Black Stars and Europe’s top leagues.
Speaking after his arrival in Ghana to officially commence his tenure with the Porcupine Warriors, the South African tactician said his immediate priority is to lead the club back to winning ways by securing trophies and re-establishing its dominance on the continental stage.
“I’m a very ambitious coach. I came here with the passion and desire to achieve success and win things. Asante Kotoko is a massive club on the African continent and we want to bring back the glory to the football club” Tinkler said.
The former South Africa international stressed that while winning titles remains his foremost objective, building a strong pipeline of young talent is equally crucial to the club’s long-term success.
“That will be my primary objective and target, but at the same time it’s about developing for the future. We want to ensure that this historic club continues to produce fantastic footballers who can represent their national team and compete at the highest level” he said.
Tinkler revealed plans to establish a clear pathway that will nurture promising players into the first team, help them earn national team opportunities and eventually secure moves to some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Drawing on his years of experience as both a player and coach, he expressed confidence in his ability to guide the club back to the pinnacle of African football.
“I’ve played at the highest level in both Europe and Africa and coached several teams in South Africa. I’ve been involved in the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup and have won a number of cup competitions. Hopefully, I can bring that success to Asante Kotoko” he stated.
He also pledged to work closely with the club’s leadership to build a team capable of competing consistently for honours at home and on the continent.
“That will be my purpose and my aim. I will be working closely with the chairman and Stanley Menzo to ensure that we make this historic club a giant of African football once again” he added.
Tinkler’s appointment signals a new chapter for the record Ghana Premier League champions as they seek to reclaim domestic dominance and re-establish themselves among Africa’s elite clubs through a blend of immediate success and long-term development.
Source: Graphic online
By: Joyce Owusu
