Larry Sumaila has recalled the saddest moment of his playing career with Hearts of Oak.
The young defender who has previously had stints with Greek giants PAOK joined the Ghanaian giants on a two-year deal in 2019.
The 25-year-old who can play anywhere across the back four was expected to give the then head coach Kim Grant an option in all the various defensive positions.
For the past two seasons, the defender has suffered to receive enough playing time under Samuel Boadu’s administration.
Even though Sumaila is capable of playing different positions, he still fails to get the starting role.
There’s a lot to be said about Sumaila’s integrity. The defender has been aching for a playing time but he claimed to stay in the team with patience as he advised other players who are struggling for a playing time.
Larry in an interview with Ghanasportspage.com claimed; “As a player, sometimes you can see that you are in your right peak to play or to start a game. Your friends can even attest to that and say your form merits a playing time but unfortunately you might be on the bench. Although you will be discouraged as a player but one thing every player should know is that the Lord who created you has a plan for you.
“You should understand and know the reason why you are being sidelined or not being selected for the game. What if you play and sustain a career threatening injury…end of career? Or maybe if you faint in the game and die? There is a reason for whatever that happens in your life so if you are in your peak or higher standard but not playing, you shouldn’t be discouraged, is God’s plan. He is preparing you for something better, something good. Don’t be discouraged. All you need is to pray, work hard, and leave the rest to God.
“There were so many times I was discouraged, I come home, sit in my room alone, sometimes I cry, sometimes I ask myself why but when I read my Bible and my Q’uran there is somewhere that tells me that be patience. Patience conquers everything. When you are patience you will become an overall boss, when you are patience nothing can defeat you. That’s my motivation. If you have patience then you are a winner. No matter how, the time will come and the Lord will bless you. No one can bring you down when the time is up. If I tell you my story, it is very very pathetic and sad but God has brought me to where I am because of my patience. I thank him.
“I don’t regret that Samuel Boadu is not starting me, he has sidelined me. I’ve never regret. As a player you will feel bad but there’s is time for everything. When you are put on on the bench keep on. There will be a new coach tomorrow who will always start you and not allow you to sit on the bench again. He can still start you even when you are not performing but the only thing you have to keep in mind as a player is you will prove everybody wrong anytime you get the opportunity or given the mandate.”
Sumaila’s contract with Hearts of Oak expired on 31st May, 2022.
He appeared in just three GPL games in the just ended season for the Rainbows.
