Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani has left no room for debate over who stands between the sticks for the Phobians when everyone is fit.
After guiding his side to a narrow but vital 1–0 win over Hohoe United at the weekend, Dramani publicly reaffirmed Benjamin Asare’s place at the top of the goalkeeping hierarchy, stressing that the experienced shot-stopper remains both the club’s first-choice keeper and its on-field leader.
“Benjamin Asare is our number one goalkeeper and the captain. Whenever he is fit and ready, he gets the nod to start,” Dramani stated in the post-match interview with the press.
Asare had only just returned from a spell on the sidelines, having been out injured for several weeks, but wasted no time reminding everyone of his value. His composed and assured performance in the season’s second-round opener provided Hearts with stability at the back as they picked up a morale-boosting victory.
For Dramani, Asare’s presence goes far beyond just shot-stopping. The coach sees him as a central figure in the dressing room and on the pitch, someone whose leadership and experience give the team structure and confidence, especially in pressure moments.
With the Ghana Premier League now entering a crucial phase, Hearts are eager to find rhythm and consistency after a mixed first round. Having their captain and trusted goalkeeper back in goal is viewed as a significant step toward that goal.
If Asare can stay healthy and maintain his form, the Phobians believe he could be a key pillar in their bid to climb the table and re-establish themselves as one of the league’s most formidable sides.
