John Barnes Hits Town

Former Liverpool star John Barnes is in the country to embark on a double mission- lend a hand to the Retired National Football Association of Ghana (RENFAG) and inspire young footballers. Speaking to the press on arrival at the VIP Lounge of the Kotoka International Airport yesterday, he pointed out that �unlike London where structures are in place to cater for ex footballers, the situation is different in most African countries, and that is why I am here to support them correct the situation.� Despite the structured program for retired UK players, he admitted that there were times he had to struggle to watch Liverpool matches. �Unfortunately, I sometimes find it difficult to get tickets for Liverpool matches.� The former England international revealed that he is here to appeal to government and the corporate world to put in place structures that will ensure ongoing support for retired footballers. �Ex players find life difficult when they retire after serving their countries and clubs, that is why we should make sure that order is changed,� he added. While in the country for the 10-day visit, Barnes, together with former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah, would hold a football clinic for the youth at the El-Wak Stadium beginning this Monday to Thursday. Responding to what he intends achieving after the clinic, he said �the youth need to be inspired, they need people like us to inspire them as they strive to get to the top.� Visiting Ghana for the second time in four years, the left-footed winger will pay a courtesy call on the Dormaahene Oseadeyo Agyeman Badu where he would be expected to make a donation to the Dormaa community. He will also be at the Accra Stadium to witness the Asante Kotoko-Nania FC FA Cup final which would be preceded by a match between retired players and the media. On July 30, a high profile fundraising dinner dance under the distinguished patronage of Vice President John Mahama would be held at the Banquet Hall, State House to raise funds in support of RENFAG. Barnes was met on arrival by retired players in the persons of Ibrahim Sunday, chairman of RENFAG, Rev Osei Kofi, Awuley Quaye, Dan Owusu and Willie Klutse, all former Black Stars players and Kojo Bonsu, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the National Sports Council. Ibrahim Sunday noted that Barnes visit will go a long way in achieving their target of realizing an ongoing support for retired footballers.