Laryea Kingston interested in Black Stars coaching job

Former Ghana winger Laryea Kingston has expressed his eagerness to coach the Black Stars.

This follows the recent dismissal of Chris Hughton after Ghana’s premature exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The four-time AFCON champions faced an early exit after losing to Cape Verde and drawing 2-2 with Egypt and Mozambique, finishing third in Group B.

In response, the Ghana Football Association swiftly terminated Hughton’s contract and formed a five-member committee to find his replacement within three weeks.

Despite the February 2, 2024 deadline for coaching applications having passed, Kingston has openly declared his interest in the role. The 43-year-old, currently serving as the assistant coach of the Black Starlets, emphasised the importance of having a local coach like himself at the helm.

While Kingston did not confirm the submission of his application, he expressed his readiness for the challenge, citing his coaching experience with the youth team of Danish side FC Nordsjaelland and the Right to Dream Academy in Ghana.

“Of course, I will accept and do it easy. I know the level at which I am now,” he stated confidently in an interview with Graphic Sports.

However, Kingston may face challenges meeting the outlined criteria for the coaching position, including a 15-year coaching experience at the highest level and a proven track record as a winner at either club or national level.

Applications for the coaching role have flooded the Ghana Football Association secretariat, with several high-profile names expressing interest. The committee is expected to review the applicants and may also approach other reputable candidates they deem fit for the job.

Ghana’s upcoming challenge will be the 2023 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic scheduled for June, making the swift appointment of a new coach crucial for the Black Stars’ preparation.