The weapon that begins to show off at Asante Kotoko, Not Eric Zeze, as Ghana Premier League suspension beneficial to Reds
Asante Kotoko are gradually noticing a weapon that would send them to high places in the future if maintained. The weapon appears not Ivorian International Eric Serge Zeze but their head coach Seydou Zerbo who was appointed at the beginning of this season.
Much had been said about Seydou Zerbo when he was coming to the Ghana Premier League but Burkina Faso International’s competence was imminently questioned at the earliest stage of the season after being crush out of the Caf Champions League.
But even at that exit, those who have technical eyes saw Asante Kotoko’s elimination by Burkina Faso side RC Kadiogo wasn’t coaching related problem but some inexperience of players shut down the Ghana Premier League champions during the second leg of the African Champions League.
Zerbo began to change opinion about him after Ghana Premier League game against Hearts of Oak, dominating his title rivals led by Samuel Boadu throughout a 1-1 draw game in Kumasi.
Asante Kotoko were denied victory in week 3 of the GPL after several penalty calls that could have send the score to 3-1 were overlooked. Kotoko welcomed Nsoatreman FC for an outstanding week 2 game and those who watched the game saw a very improved Asante Kotoko- a feature of a side handled by tactically brilliant person.
After week 3 fixtures, the Ghana Premier League has been suspended due to court injunction placed by relegated Ash Gold, and Asante Kotoko are benefitting from the temporary stop. Zerbo has admitted the league’s suspension is profiting Asante Kotoko.
“We have worked hard and used this break period to raise the levels of all the players.
“Overall we have had significant improvements though some are still recovering from injuries,” the Burkinabe disclosed.
Kotoko have used the period to improve some aspect of their game and some individual players.
Footages from Asante Kotoko training sessions and matches highlight Seydou Zerbo’s managerial genius improving the defense, midfield, center forward and wingers. By far, the Burkina International has improved all aspect of his team and those who were struggling have put on fine forms.
Steven Dese Mukwala and Stephen Amankona who were struggling have settled in within the two weeks of suspension period so far. Mukwala and Amankona have scored some brilliant training match goals and for Stephen Amankona in particular, he can reach the height of Ghana Premier League legend Charles Taylor if Amankona keeps on progressing.
Kotoko have sank Techiman Liberty, Asokwa Deportivo and likes in training matches at Adako Jachie training complex since the suspension of the Ghana Premier League.
The way and rate at which Kotoko are able progress to final third or score tells it all that Seydou Zerbo is a masterpiece, and making this improvement within a short time make him a weapon for Asante Kotoko who are hoping to take back their place in African football.
If he gets more time, Zerbo can turn Asante Kotoko into a force in Africa again.
For many times in suspension period friendly games, Zerbo’s men are able launch attack from their own half, transit and score amid interference. A feature closely monitored so far and it highlights the Burkinabe can take Asante Kotoko high.
Prosper Narteh Ogum led Asante Kotoko to win the Ghana Premier League last season and his side were more of a possession-regain side. Zerbo’s work so far reminds of Hans-Dieter Schmidt’s side that played the maiden Caf Confederation Cup final against Hearts of Oak in 2004.
With work done so far, there is no doubt about Zerbo’s success at Kotoko, and appearing as a coach thumbprinting Asante Kotoko with his managerial philosophies- defend well, attack, keep possession and regain possession with intensity- since 2008 under Bashir Hayford.
Club officials should prioritized his demands and the players he asks for going forward.
