Former Hearts of Oak captain Yaw Amankwah Mireku didn’t hold back when he called out the current players for their lackluster performance, branding them as “jokers” during the team’s worrying decline.
The club, once dominant, now finds itself flirting with relegation, suffering their fifth loss in six games, including a disappointing 1-0 defeat to local rivals Accra Lions.
Mireku, who led Hearts to victory in the 2004 CAF Confederation Cup, criticized the players for their lack of dedication, accusing them of prioritizing partying and romance over their responsibilities to the club. He particularly singled out midfielder Salifu Ibrahim for his underwhelming displays this season.
“Players lose sight of their purpose at Hearts of Oak, chasing money and indulging in unnecessary lifestyles. Take Salifu Ibrahim, for instance. Is this the same player who once showed such passion? Now he’s just going through the motions,” he remarked on Akoma FM.
Mireku cautioned against the repercussions of their lifestyle choices, warning of the potential downfall of the once-mighty club.
“Instead of recognizing the honor of playing for Hearts of Oak and giving it their all, these players are treating it like a joke. They buy themselves flashy cars, chase after girls, and that’s where their focus lies,” he lamented.
With only six games left in the season, Hearts of Oak face a daunting task to avoid relegation, with crucial matches against Berekum Chelsea and Aduana Stars looming large.
Mireku stressed the importance of the players prioritizing their commitment to the club over frivolous distractions, urging them to elevate their game and set aside their lavish lifestyles for the sake of the team’s future.
“They need to buckle down and forget about the luxuries.”