Asante Kotoko interim coach Abdul Karim Zito says he is fully focused on steering the team to success and is not concerned with discussions about securing the role on a permanent basis.
Zito, who took charge midway through the second half of the season following the departure of Prosper Narteh Ogum, has overseen a remarkable turnaround in the Porcupine Warriors’ form. Under his leadership, Kotoko are unbeaten, have secured a place in the FA Cup final, and currently sit fourth in the Ghana Premier League standings with 54 points.
Speaking after Kotoko’s emphatic 4-1 win over Dreams FC at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday, Zito revealed that coaching the club was not originally part of the plan.
I never knew I was coming to Kotoko. I was just lying down when I had a call, and I was asked to come for the technical director job, not coaching, Zito said.
Unfortunately, my own boy [Prosper Ogum] left, so I had to take over till the season ends. For now, leave me in peace to work and see out the rest of the league and then the knockout [FA Cup final]. I prefer [winning] a double, so for the position, it doesn’t matter. What matters now is I’m leading the team, and we have to do better.
Zito’s immediate priority is to maintain momentum as Kotoko continue their late push for the league title. Their next test is a crucial Matchday 31 fixture away to league leaders Bibiani Gold Stars at DUN’s Park on Sunday, a match that could prove pivotal in the title race.