Former Hearts of Oak star Bernard Don Bortey says the quality of players in the Ghana Premier League remains unchanged, but believes the current generation must work harder and show more courage to fulfil its potential.
The former Ghana international was speaking about the standard of football during the ongoing 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season, comparing today’s players with those he played alongside.
Don Bortey told Akoma FM that there was little difference between the ability of current players and that of his own generation. However, he said many players now lack the determination required to improve and progress further.
> “The quality of players in the GPL today is the same as it was during our time. The difference is that the current generation is afraid to push harder,” Don Bortey said.
His comments come amid debate among Ghana Premier League supporters over whether the overall standard of the competition has declined. Don Bortey disagrees with that assessment and maintains that the league continues to produce talented footballers.
The former winger spent nine years with Hearts of Oak, playing for the club from 2001 to 2010. During that period, he became one of the club’s most popular and respected players.
He also represented Aduana FC, New Edubiase United and Great Olympics, establishing himself as one of the leading players of his generation.
Don Bortey believes the difference between the two eras is not a loss of quality, but the willingness of players to challenge themselves and take the extra steps needed to reach a higher level.
By: Pascal Amoah
