Sam Johnson to Black Stars Player, “If You Are Afraid of Injury, Then Resign From The National Team”
Former Ghana Black Stars defender Sam Johnson has expressed strong views regarding concerns over injuries sustained by players while representing the national team. In an interview with Joysports, Johnson criticized players who worry about who will take care of them if they get injured, dismissing such concerns as baseless.
“What kills me is that when people are saying when they get injured, who is going to take care of them? Excuse me, but that is nonsense.”
Johnson emphasized that playing for the national team is a professional choice, and players must accept the risks that come with it. He stated that footballers know what they are signing up for when they decide to represent their country and should not complain about potential injuries.
“This is your job, and that is what you choose to do. You either do it or you leave it. So if you know you will come and you will get injured and Ghana won’t take care of you, then resign from the national team or don’t come at all.”
His comments come amid ongoing debates about the welfare of players after international duty, with some athletes voicing concerns over medical care and post-career support. Some former national team players have struggled with injuries sustained while representing Ghana, leading to calls for better structures to support them after retirement.
Despite these concerns, Johnson believes that representing Ghana should be seen as an honor and responsibility rather than an opportunity for financial security. He urges players to fully commit to the cause or step aside for those willing to give their all without hesitation.
His remarks have sparked mixed reactions among football fans, with some agreeing that national team duty should be about patriotism, while others argue that players deserve proper care and compensation for their sacrifices.