Glo-CAF Awards: Erico Backs Postponement ,lauds No

Erico was reacting to the recent decision of Confederation of African Football (CAF) to postpone the ceremonies of the Glo-CAF Awards originally slated to hold on January 9.

“As a coach, I would have permitted the players to attend since it is basically a two-day affair and knowing that they have been playing with their clubs before coming to camp. However, the personal decision of these players not to disrupt camp is highly commendable. It shows they are patriotic, committed and very responsible”, submitted Erico.

Going philosophical, he noted that the postponement is a challenge to both CAF and the sponsor, Globacom to re-strategize towards improving what was already planned for the event. In his words, “I have no doubt that the involvement of Globacom will deliver a world class ceremony that will make Africa proud and elevate the status of the award.

However, the delay will also offer CAF and Globacom the opportunity to improve on what they previously had on ground to deliver a show that will be a knock-out”.

He also challenged CAF to quickly come out with a new date not far from the end of the Cup of Nations. This, he argued will keep African football in the front burner of world football discussions. “From celebrating the performances of our players at the Cup of Nations we will be celebrating the achievement of our stars last year with the Glo-CAF Awards,” Erico reasoned.

The Executive Committee of CAF will meet on January 16 in Cairo, Egypt to choose a new date for the ceremony which was postponed as a result of difficulties in securing the attendance of the nominees, most of whom are at the centre of dispute between their clubs in Europe and their national team coaches. Some of the clubs are requesting for late departure of the players to their national teams’ camp ahead the Nations Cup.

Samuel Eto’O of Barcelona and Cameroon, Ghana’s Michael Essien and Cote d’Ivoire’s Diddier Drogba, both of whom play for Chelsea are the three contenders for the African Player of the Year award.

Nigeria’s duo of John Mikel Obi and Taye Taiwo respectively of Lyn FC, Norway and Marseille FC, France are in contention with Egypt’s Farraq Ahmed for the Young Player of the Year Award. Not left out are coaches Stephen Keshi and Henry Michel of Togo and Cote d’Ivoire respectively who are in the race for Coach of the Year Award with EL Ahly of Egypt’s Jose Miguel.