[ 2011-07-23 ]

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.

Source - Daily Guide

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