By Daily sports on August 23, 2020

Ghana legend John Paintsil has explained the reason why he held legendary Nigerian striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni by his crotch during a match.

The incident happened during an English Premier League match between Ayakubu’s former side Everton and Fulham, who had Paintsil on their books at the time.

Paintsil had to mark Yakubu during a corner kick routine and he decided to distract the bulky striker by grabbing his private area.

Yakubu was not pleased, but the incident was missed by the match referee and the game continued.

Paintsil, who spent three years with Fulham, has now opened up about the incident when speaking to Citi Sports.

“He was thick and heavier than me and I was supposed to mark him and, in the game, the more you stay long the more you gain experience,” Paintsil said.

“So, for you not to go one on one contact, you have to distract him, do something to take his mind off from the game. Besides that, Yakubu is my very good friend.”

Yakubu, who is currently the third-highest ever international goalscorer for Nigeria with 21 goals, announced his retirement from football in November 2017 following a spell with English side Coventry City.

While Paintsil retired from professional football in June 2016 following a stint with South African club Maritzburg United having played 89 matches for Ghana. (African Football)

•PHOTO: John Paintsil 

Source Daily sports

Posted August 23, 2020

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