Former Ghana international Laryea Kingston has apologized for manner he announced his resignation as head coach of the Black Starlets.
Kingston acknowledged his shortcomings in a press statement and apologized to Ghana Football Association President Kurt Okraku and the Executive Council.
The decision to step down came after the Black Starlets’ defeat to Burkina Faso in the WAFU B U-17 Championship semi-finals, which dashed their hopes of qualifying for the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations tournament. Kingston, visibly disappointed, announced his resignation shortly thereafter.
The Ghana Football Association revealed that Kingston exhibited inappropriate behavior by refusing to attend a team meeting and disembarking from the team bus on the way to the hotel.
Laryea Kingston, just before the team’s third-place playoff against Nigeria, reflected on his actions and issued a heartfelt apology.
“I apologise unreservedly for our failure to pay back the trust, love and support we have graciously received from Ghanaians,” Kingston stated.
“Concerning any other issue about my personal conduct, with suggestions that I abandoned the team following last Saturday’s semi-final defeat to Burkina Faso, I state unmistakably, that my announcement during the post-match press conference was without ambiguity that my role as coach with the team ends after the tournament.”
He continued, “To the President and the Exco, I also want to unreservedly and sincerely apologize for any misunderstanding, inconvenience and embarrassment my decision to announce my resignation last Saturday caused.”
“After careful consideration, I could have handled things better and this will be a guiding experience for me going forward,” Kingston added. “I love my nation, I served my nation as a player, and I have been serving my nation as a coach.”
Kingston expressed gratitude for the GFA’s opportunity and Ghanaians’ support, pledging to finish the tournament strong, aiming to defeat Nigeria and secure the bronze medal.
Starrfm.com.gh/ Christian Kobby Quarshie
