Black Stars coach Chris Hughton introduced himself to the media during his unveiling at the SG Mall in Kumasi on Monday. The former Premier League coach spoke about his vast experience and capabilities to lead the Ghanaian national team to success.
Hughton, who has coached Premier League teams like Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion, replaced Otto Addo, who stepped down in December 2022. He has signed a contract that runs until December 31, 2024.
“I have been in football for a long time, not only as a head coach but also as an assistant coach. I was an assistant coach for some 14 and a half years before I was a head coach. I coached in the Championship in England and also managed three teams in the Premier League in England, so I think my coaching standing and credentials are at a good level,” Hughton said during the well-attended event.
Hughton also acknowledged the differences between managing an international team and a club team. “Preparation time is less, but you have enough time at the club level. You have the players day in and day out to be able to develop a team, but every manager in international football has the same difficulties,” he said.
He further stated that he has a lot of experience and would use all of it to determine the way forward for the team, including picking the team and deciding on tactics.
Hughton’s first game in charge will be on Thursday, in the 2023 Africa Cup qualifiers against Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.