By Mamadu Sallieu Barrie (FBC Intern)
The Sierra Leone Football Association, SLFA, has officially debunked the rumours surrounding Mohamed Kallon’s appointment as the new head coach of Leone Stars.
In a press release dated August 15, 2023, titled “Current Status of Leone Stars Technical Team,” SLFA clarified that there is no truth to the speculations circulating on social media. It was emphatically stated that John Edward Keister remains the substantive head coach, with a contract that extends until the end of August 2023.
SLFA also affirmed that Keister has been entrusted with the responsibility of leading Leone Stars in the AFCON Qualifiers match against Guinea Bissau scheduled for September 2023 – This decision comes amidst series of congratulatory messages on social media for Mohamed Kallon on 2nd August 2023.
Mohamed Kallon who is highly regarded as a football icon in Sierra Leone and one of the most accomplished individuals in the history of Leone Stars.
Keister, who was reappointed as the head coach in August 2020, played a pivotal role in guiding Leone Stars to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon after a 26 year absence.
However, criticisms have been directed towards him for the team’s lack of success in securing a spot in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
The SLFA has promised to provide an update on the situation after the AFCON Qualifiers in September. Many passionate sports fans have expressed their desire for Keister to be replaced due to his underwhelming performance. All eyes are now on SLFA, eager to see if Keister’s tenure will be extended or if a new head coach will be appointed.
See Press Release
