Ghana: Hearts Coach Koopman Wants to Sign New Striker

27 September 2023

Accra Hearts of Oak Head Coach, Martin Koopman, is hoping to sign another striker to strengthen the attacking department of the team,and complement the efforts of Congolese forward,KashalaWanet.

Wanet scored his first home goal for the Phobians on Sunday, as they secured their first victory of the season against Nsoatreman FC at the Accra Sports Stadium.

It was a game in which the Phobians wasted a lot of chances, forcing Coach Koopman to decide onstrengthening the striking department.

In a post-match conference, the Dutch trainer said the departure of striker,Kukah, who joined KF Shkupi of North Macedonia on loan last week, has left a vacuum.

The forward returned to the Phobian fold this season after impressing on loan at Real Tamale United last season, where he scored 11 goals in 24 games.

"Yes, I missed Kukah in this game. I saw a lot of moments today that he could have scored for us in this game. We worked on him to bring him to that level but he's gone. That is painful."

"We're working on that department of the team because there is a lot to be done there. What I want is for one striker to go and another to come; that is what I wish for."

He said that he has spoken to the club's management about it, but nothing has been done.

"I have Ivorian striker,KassimCissé, but there is a problem that is above me. He trains with us. The board has brought him in for me, but I want them to work on him for me, so he can start to play."

The 67-year-old expressed happiness at the level of reaction shown by the playersin the game.

He noted that it was not easy getting them back after an opening-day defeat in Tamale.

"I realised they were a bit tensed and a little bit nervous, but they played a very good game and had control of the game as well."

For Coach Koopman, a lot of players are not satisfied with their performance, and they want to push for more.

"This is a good feeling for me because there is a lot of work to be done. It is a young team that needs to work hard to make their dreams a reality."

AllAfrica publishes around 500 reports a day from more than 100 news organizations and over 500 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. We publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons. Publishers named above each report are responsible for their own content, which AllAfrica does not have the legal right to edit or correct.

Articles and commentaries that identify allAfrica.com as the publisher are produced or commissioned by AllAfrica. To address comments or complaints, please Contact us.