Caleb Amankwah says he was nicknamed ‘NESTA’ after switching to defence

Accra Hearts of Oak defender, Caleb Amankwah has disclosed that he was named after Italian football legend, Alessandro Nesta.

Usually deployed as a centre-back, the former Lazio and AC Milan player is widely considered as one of the best defenders of all time. He was best known for his pace, artistic tackles, elegance on the ball, distribution and tight marking of opponents.

The name seems to be working for Caleb Amankwah. He has also adopted the qualities of former Real Madrid defender, Sergio Ramos.

His eyes for goal is a result of a combination of him playing as an attacker in his youth before switching to defence.

Without his last minute goal on Sunday against Kotoku Royals, Hearts would’ve been out of the top four. The 25-year-old has scored two winners and one equalizer in the ongoing campaign for the Rainbows.

Caleb struck late to snatch a point in their 1-1 with Asate Kotoko in Kumasi. He registered his second goal of the season in Hearts of Oak’s 3-2 victory over Tamale City. He also showcased his skill of scoring goals when his team is in need to close the gap on Aduana Stars in the BetPawa Premier League on Sunday, netting a last minute goal against Kotoku Royals.

Speaking in an interview with Kumasi FM, Caleb revealed that he began his career as a striker. He is, however, willing to lead the line for the Rainbows in future.

“I started playing as a winger with Mighty Stars at Tafo, I sometimes played as a number nine then I was converted to a right full-back before my coach used me as a defender, he gave me the name ‘Nesta’ after just a game.”

“I am very willing to play as a striker if the need be because I want to help my team to score and get money and I was used for that role at West African Football Club in the last 15 minutes if we were not scoring.” he said.