Accra Hearts of Oak have confirmed the appointment of Ghanaian goalkeeping legend Richard "Olele" Kingson as the club's new goalkeepers' coach, a move
Accra Hearts of Oak have confirmed the appointment of Ghanaian goalkeeping legend Richard “Olele” Kingson as the club’s new goalkeepers’ coach, a move seen as a major boost to the Phobians’ technical department ahead of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season.
The 48-year-old, who began his career with Accra Great Olympics before rising to become one of Africa’s most respected shot-stoppers, joins newly appointed head coach Nebojsa Kapor’s backroom staff as Hearts look to end a two-season trophy drought and mount a genuine title challenge.
Kingson enjoyed a distinguished playing career in Europe, turning out for clubs such as Birmingham City, Blackpool, and Galatasaray, among other spells across England, Turkey, Sweden and Cyprus.
On the international stage, he was a mainstay of the Black Stars between 1996 and 2012, amassing 93 caps and representing Ghana at the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups, including the country’s historic run to the quarter-finals in South Africa.
Beyond his playing days, Kingson has built an equally impressive coaching résumé, serving as part of Ghana’s national team goalkeepers’ coaching staff from 2017 to 2024. That wealth of international experience is expected to be invaluable as he takes charge of Hearts of Oak’s great shot-stoppers.
Among those set to benefit most is Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, who will now have the opportunity to work closely with one of Ghana’s finest ever custodians. Asare’s development is viewed as central to Hearts of Oak’s ambitions this season, and Kingson’s mentorship is expected to sharpen his shot-stopping, distribution and overall game-reading.
This marks Kingson’s second spell at the club, having previously served as interim goalkeepers’ trainer in 2021 before returning to the Black Stars setup.
Announcing his return, Hearts of Oak described it as a homecoming, with the club stating: “A legend returns. From guarding the post to grooming the next generation.”
With Kapor overseeing a broader technical rebuild, Kingson’s arrival signals Hearts of Oak’s intent to blend fresh leadership with proven pedigree as they chase silverware and a return to continental football in the coming season.
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