Former Hearts of Oak forward Bernard Don Bortey says the quality of players in the Ghana Premier League remains comparable with that of his generation, but believes today’s footballers need to work harder to fulfil their potential.
The former Ghana international was assessing the standard of the ongoing 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season and comparing the current group with the players he competed alongside.
Speaking to Akoma FM, Don Bortey said the main difference was not ability, but the willingness to push beyond existing limits.
> “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,” he said.
Some Ghana Premier League supporters have argued that the overall standard of players in the competition has declined. Don Bortey disagrees, saying the league continues to produce talented footballers.
However, he believes the current generation must demonstrate more courage, determination and ambition if they are to progress to the next level.
Don Bortey spent 2001 to 2010 with Hearts of Oak, becoming 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.