Former local league prodigy Bernard Don Bortey who plied his trade for Hearts of Oak has discussed how he impressed Kotoko’s coach with his ‘wizardry’ and the vital part that renowned Ghanaian journalist Kwabena Yeboah played in his nearly successful transfer to Asante Kotoko.
Don Bortey described how Kotoko’s then coach, Ernst Middendorp, was hesitant to sign him when he was introduced at training in an interview with Dan Kweku Yeboah TV.
Don Bortey impressed the German coach with his abilities after Kwabena Yeboah convinced him to give him an opportunity.
“Ernest Middendorp didn’t want me but Kwabena Yeboah maintained that he gives me a chance. My first touch was a corner to the goal. Osei Boateng was the goalkeeper then. The second touch was a free kick, and Middendorp was shocked,” Don Bortey said.
He also revealed that Kwabena Yeboah advised Kotoko to complete the transfer before allowing him to return to Accra, as Hearts of Oak would not allow him back. “Kwabena Yeboah asked them not to allow me to go to Accra but if they do, I wouldn’t come back,” Don Bortey added.
Sadly, the transfer was unsuccessful, and Don Bortey continued to play for Hearts of Oak. There, he enjoyed great success, including leading the club to its first CAF Confederation Cup victory in 2004, defeating Asante Kotoko on penalties.
Don Bortey also spoke highly of Kwabena Yeboah’s impact on Ghanaian football, describing him as one of the few journalists who had a genuine passion for the game. “Kwabena Yeboah is one of the best football journalists Ghana has ever had. He has done a lot for Ghana football. He is one of the few who genuinely love football,” Don Bortey said.
Source – Tru News Report
