Dede sharing a joke with Kotoko’s acting coach Michael Osei
Deputy Ghana captain Dede Ayew says the Black Stars risk their World Cup campaign at their own peril should they underrate Uganda(Cranes) in tomorrow’s World Cup qualifier in Tamale.
The West Ham man will be watching the game from the bench, but has called for outright focus to ensure a win.
He told the media at the Lizzy Sports Complex yesterday that the visitor’s recent rich track record against Ghana-losing to them (Uganda) and drawing in Kumasi should serve as enough guiding principle for the Tamale tie.
Dede, who is on the verge of returning from a long injury lay off has described Ghana as favourites in the Group but cautioned that, the favourite tag makes it more difficult to pull through.
However, he mentioned that with the type of players in camp, massive support from the home fans and with the right mentality, the team will surmount the Cranes hurdle.
The former Swansea/Marseille forward said “We can’t underrate any team especially this team, we lost to them in Uganda and drew in Kumasi, so that should tell you how difficult the game is going to be.”
“We need the fans to rally behind the team, it helps. Ghanaians should pray for us. It is our first game and we can’t afford to lose.”
Dede is in the country in the company for some officials of his London-based club for a special program put together by Betway Betting Company, sponsors of West Ham.
By Kofi Owusu Aduonum