Football
Exclusive: Abdul Fatawu Embraces Challenge Under Steve Cooper and Hails Jordan Ayew as a 'Valuable Mentor'
Leicester City’s Abdul Fatawu Issahaku praises new manager Steve Cooper and fellow Ghanaian Jordan Ayew as a mentor, while remaining confident in Leicester’s Premier League prospects despite a slow start.
Image Credits: Stephen White - CameraSport via Getty Images
Leicester City’s Abdul Fatawu Issahaku expresses confidence in new manager Steve Cooper; happy to play alongside his countryman Jordan Ayew, while hopeful that 'The Foxes' will find their feet after failing to record a victory in three Premier League outings.
Ghana international Abdul Fatawu Issahaku joined Leicester City permanently in a £14 million deal from Sporting CP's Jose Alvalade Stadium, following a successful loan spell. The pacey winger had a stellar campaign last season, playing a crucial role in Leicester's Championship title triumph, which secured their promotion back to England's top-flight after just one year away.
Now, the former Steadfast FC talisman is seen as a key player under manager Steve Cooper as they aim to consolidate their position in the Premier League. Since making his Premier League debut against Tottenham Hotspur, Fatawu Issahaku has accumulated 247 minutes of experience under Steve Cooper's management.
"So far, things are going well, and it's just the beginning, so I don't want to say too much just yet. But I think it's going in a positive direction, and I believe I need to stay focused to make the most of this opportunity and make it even easier for myself,” he told SportsBoom.com.
Coping Under Steve Cooper
Cooper took the reins at Leicester City's King Power Stadium, succeeding Enzo Maresca, who departed to join Chelsea. Despite playing three matches this season, the 2015/16 Premier League champions are still seeking their first win, having failed to secure a victory so far.
I was thrilled to get the opportunity to play for Leicester City - a great club with an amazing atmosphere. Although Coach Enzo Maresca left for Chelsea, I'm excited about the new manager, Steve Cooper, who's passionate about winning games, and that's what matters most to me. We're doing our best.
Abdul Fatawu
Fatawu continued, "For me, it's about supporting the club and giving my all, no matter who's in charge. My goal is to deliver results and bring joy to the fans. Both Enzo Maresca and Steve Cooper are great coaches, but they have their own styles and approaches."
"You have to adapt to the manager's methods. Cooper is an experienced coach who knows what it takes to succeed in the English Premier League. He has a great track record, and I'm confident in his ability to help us thrive."
"Coaches have different styles, but as players, it's our job to adapt and give our all to make the fans happy."
The Ghanian Connection
The Ghanaian presence at the King Power Stadium has reached a fever pitch with the arrival of seasoned veteran Jordan Ayew. The 32- year- old's signing is viewed as a significant coup by the Leicester-based club. For Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, the news of Ayew's capture from Crystal Palace's Selhurst Park was thrilling.
"I was excited when I heard Jordan Ayew was joining me at the King Power Stadium. We had a great conversation, and I was happy to have another Ghanaian brother by my side. It's amazing to have him here - he's a senior player, and I love playing with him. We've always worked well together on the national team, and I'm confident we'll do the same at Leicester City."
"Jordan's always willing to offer valuable advice, both on and off the pitch. I think this will make it even easier to play together, both for the national team and at Leicester City."
"I have huge respect for Jordan Ayew, on and off the pitch. He's a great advisor and I'm excited to be playing alongside him."
"Unfortunately, our recent game against Aston Villa didn't go as planned, but it was a great match, nonetheless. Jordan, my teammates, and I gave it our all, but we came up short. However, we're staying focused, as there are many more games ahead, and we can't afford to lose concentration."
Victor is a skilled broadcast journalist with an in-depth understanding of the sports ecosystem which spans over 8 years. He brings onboard a rich experience, having established himself as one of Ghana's finest lead commentators through major events like the African Games and the Ghana Women's Premier League.