President John Evans Atta Mills has directed that the Black Stars be paid per diem covering the duration of the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. The per diem is an added incentive and motivation for the team to give of their best at their second consecutive World Cup outing. President Mills issued the directive during a visit to one of the team’s training sessions in South Africa ahead of the opening Group D game against Serbia. The Black Stars won the game by a lone goal. The President congratulated Skipper Stephen Appiah and his teammates for doing the nation proud for making it to the World Cup back-to-back. “You have done yourself and the nation proud and the whole of Ghana is going to be stretching every sinew to support you tomorrow as you play your first game against Serbia” President Atta Mills said. “I will be up there in the stands and you can be sure that I will be the chief supporter” President Atta Mills added. President Mills advised the players to play as a team and stick to the coach’s game plan. “Individually, you are all skillful but the only way you can win and progress, is by playing as a team. Teamwork is very critical” said the President. He also advised the players to manage their temperament on the field of play and be cautious especially with their tackles. “I Know that you are determined to bring glory to Ghana and so will do everything possible to defend the flag. But please be mindful of the fact that the game is governed by rules” was the President’s caution to the Black Stars. On his part, Skipper Stephen Appiah, on behalf of his colleagues, thanked the President for his visit and his words of inspiration. “Your presence here is a source of strong motivation and we are assuring you that we will not disappoint you and the nation” Stephen Appiah said. “We are very much aware of the onerous responsibility on our shoulders and we shall endeavour not to let Ghana down” the Skipper added. Stephen also thanked the President for directing that they be paid per diem lasting the whole tournament irrespective of whether the team makes it to the final or not. “Your gesture is very much appreciated and you have proven to us once again that you are truly the father of the nation. We will not let you down” Stephen Appiah added. Before leaving Loftus Park, President Mills presented each player with a personalized framed picture of the President holding the Cup when it arrived in Ghana, with the inscription, “With determination and self-belief, you can bring the cup back home. Ghana is solidly behind you”. The President also congratulated the Technical Team for a good work done so far and wished them all the best as they plunge headlong into the tournament with the game against Serbia.