Former Asante Kotoko chairman, Herbert Mensah, has in a heartfelt tribute lauded German coach Ernst Middendorp for his instrumental role in transforming football in Ghana.

Middendorp, who coached Kotoko during a pivotal era, received high praise from Herbert for his dedication to developing players and implementing global football standards during his time with the club.

"Happy Birthday, Ernst, 66 today. The world has been blessed. Really. I think if more people understood what you have to offer, what you've offered in the past, they would understand how instrumental you have been in the development of the sport," Mensah said, reflecting on Middendorp’s extensive contributions not just in Ghana but across the globe.

Herbert Mensah's tribute delved into the intricacies of Middendorp's coaching philosophy, crediting him with revolutionising football in Ghana by emphasising player development, both physically and mentally, and introducing a more strategic approach to the game.

"You taught us in your time in Ghana, and I watched you as you moved all around the world, from South Africa to the Far East, to the Middle East, back into Europe, that the foundations for the development of sport, especially football, start at a very young age," Herbert noted.

One of the key moments Herbert recalled was a late-night discussion before a crucial match, where Middendorp explained his player selection process. "You told me, 'I trust him,' and I thought, 'Trust? What does it mean by that?' You explained that you needed players who would carry out instructions exactly as they should be – in terms of positioning on the pitch, reading the game, and running with the runners," Herbert recounted, adding "That level of trust and attention to detail is what transformed football in Ghana."

Herbert pointed out how Middendorp elevated fitness levels within the team, pushing players like Godfred Yeboah (TV3) and Aziz Ansah to new heights, making them integral to the team's strategy. "I remember when you raised the fitness levels... Today, I see in modern play, like yesterday, watching Liverpool and Arsenal, the defenders moving in consonance together. We were ahead of our time."

Middendorp’s dedication extended beyond the pitch, as Herbert Mensah praised his tireless work ethic. "From 6 a.m. when you started, all the way through to afternoon training, and then in between getting in a car and driving to Brong Ahafo and other places to look for talent... you made a real impact, Ernst," Herbert said, emphasising the coach’s hands-on approach to talent development and coaching education.

Herbert Mensah expressed his deep appreciation for Middendorp's legacy in Ghanaian football, saying "You laid the benchmark. Ghana will be very grateful for everything that you've done. Happy birthday, my friend, happy birthday."

Middendorp, who has had a long and successful coaching career across multiple continents, remains a revered figure in Ghanaian football, with his tenure at Asante Kotoko remembered as a period of innovation and progress.