Johnson Smith tells referees to protect his star man Fabio Gama

Asante Kotoko stop-gap coach, Johnson Smith has called for greater protection for his jet-heeled playmaker Fabio Gama in the ongoing Ghana Premier League.

The Porcupine Warriors gaffer believes opponents have resorted to ‘rough play ‘ as a method to blunt Gama’s blistering attacking ability.

The Brazilian midfielder joined the Porcupine Warriors this season on a two-year deal. He, however, played his first game in Kotoko’s 1-1 draw with Medeama where he was introduced in the last ten minute of the game.

He was handed his debut start in their 2-0 win over Liberty Professionals, providing an assist in a game Kotoko dominated.

Smith reckons officials in the domestic top-flight should be on the lookout for the rough tactics deployed on Gama by the teams.

”Opponents have been fouling Fabio Gama. He has suffered too many times and I will plead with referees to protect him. He is yet to get used to the Ghanaian style of Football. He’s not strong enough,” Johnson Smith told Kumasi-based Oyerepa FM.

Asante Kotoko will play as hosts against Aduana Stars on match-day 10 of the league on Sunday at the Accra Sports Stadium.