Former Hearts of Oak legend Bernard Don Bortey has delivered a scathing assessment of attacking players in the Ghana Premier League (GPL), lamenting what he describes as a worrying decline in learning, discipline, and technical development among modern strikers.
Speaking on Atinka TV’s Kick Off Show, the former Black Stars winger did not mince words, insisting that many GPL attackers are failing to progress because they lack the drive to improve.
According to him, “GPL strikers don’t learn.”
Bortey explained that several forwards continue to repeat the same mistakes season after season because they do not take feedback seriously, do not study the game, and show limited interest in refining their skills.
Fundamentals Still Missing
He stressed that many strikers in the league struggle with basic attacking principles such as:
-clinical finishing
-proper positioning
-intelligent movement off the ball
-composure in front of goal
Bortey believes these persistent weaknesses stem from poor attitude, inadequate tactical discipline, and a reluctance to learn from coaches or experienced players.
Players Ignore Instructions and Analysis
The former Hearts icon also revealed that some modern players disregard tactical instructions and fail to study their opponents, making their play predictable and easy to counter.
He contrasted this with his playing era, where players were eager to learn from senior teammates, reviewed match footage regularly, and spent extra time training to sharpen their technical abilities.
Impact on the League’s Competitiveness
Bortey warned that this lack of growth among strikers is contributing to declining attacking quality across the GPL, ultimately affecting club performances on the continental stage.
He called on young attackers to take their development seriously if they hope to reach elite levels or compete internationally.
By Prince Tuffour
