CK Akunnor wants Hearts to continue believing into next season

By Patrick Akoto

Coach CK Akunnor has challenged his Hearts squad to start the season with the belief that they can deliver the title in 2013.

The Phobians- who have remained trophyless for the past three seasons are desperate to improve on their fortunes this term and are stepping up their pre-season training at Sekondi.

The 2000 African Champions have set their eyes firmly fixed on reclaiming the Premier league crown which has remained elusive since 2009.

Head trainer CK Akunnor has made some bold and drastic changes all geared towards returning the club to the top of  Ghana football once again.

The former Ghana captain wield the axe on influential midfielder Laryea Kingston for breaking camp rules by sacking him to send a strong signal to rest of the squad members that no one was ‘untouchable’ in his new look team.

Coach Akunnor is confident the upcoming season will be a remarkable turnaround for the capital-based side.

“We are preparing for the season and I believe everthing is going as planned at the moment,” Akunnor said

“We are all aware of the challenges that confront us but I believe with serious training and determination we can stage a huge claim for the title,”

“There should not be many excuses. The players know that they have a responsibility to do a good job and we’re encouraging them to give over 100% for the club.”

There are concerns about the fitness level of some of their new recruits, barely a month for the starts of the new Premier League campaign.

It is understood that strikers Gilbert Fiamenyo and Richard Addai are yet to fully recover from the various injuries.