The Rise of Jordan Ayew: Unveiling the Accra Roots, Unbreakable Bond with Roy Hodgson, and Crystal Palace's Jewel Michael Olise

Jordan Ayew, standing in the matchbox boot room on a scorching day in New Beckenham, South London, shares that he mainly relies on soft ground. Given the recent surge in severe knee injuries among professional players, it's a valid question to inquire about his boot preference.

Using hard ground is challenging for me, and I would rather avoid it if possible.

Crystal Palace

Arsenal

Monday 21st August 6:30pm

Kick off 8:00pm

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The Ayew brothers in action for Ghana

The 31-year-old is prepared to commence another journey around the sun after rejuvenating during the summer in Turkey. Ayew, a devoted family man, is molded by a strong sense of community from his upbringing on the streets of Accra. A grin as expansive as the Volta River emerges when his hometown is brought up, from the roaming chickens of Labadi Beach to the soaring Eagles.

Accra, home to 300,000 residents, is a city obsessed with football. During my gap year in 2007, I was assigned the challenging duty of gathering a spirited team of 11-year-olds to compete in tournaments against opponents at least two years their senior. Having undergone the task myself, I can attest that Accra is a city characterized by its resilience.

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Andre Ayew with Jordan on the final day of last season

Ghana commemorated its 50th anniversary of being the pioneer Sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from its colonial rulers. During this festive period, schoolchildren could be seen cycling amidst the tuk-tuks adorned in jerseys of famous footballers like Michael Essien and Stephen Appiah.

Merely a year later, preparations were already underway for the city to host the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, signifying the progress and determination of the nation.

"The traffic is always heavy," my cab driver would often remark as I rushed to find a television screen to watch Essien's Chelsea play during those peak Jose Mourinho years. Every Wednesday, in the area where my residence was located, a water shortage would occur, forcing me to walk 2km to the closest reliable vendor.

The blaring car horns and the sight of hard work and perspiration are all too familiar to Ayew, who, despite his father's celebrity status, has risen through 240 Premier League appearances to represent the Black Stars in two World Cup finals.

"I was raised by my grandparents," he shares with us. "Accra holds a special place in my heart. It's where I consider home, and where I acquired valuable life lessons - fundamental values such as discipline and humility.

"Not only did I receive guidance from my family, but also from the members of our neighborhood. They would kindly point out my mistakes, ensuring I stayed on the right path. It's a unique mindset, distinct from what is often experienced in Europe."

"It's helped shaped who I am today. These are the people who started with me from the bottom, my real friends, and I always love going back to see them."

Ayew's destiny seemed to revolve around having a ball at his feet, considering he was the third-born son of the legendary Abedi Pele, who had been crowned African Footballer of the Year three times.

However, Ayew swiftly retaliates against such comparisons, stating, "I never wanted to be caught up in the constant comparisons to my brothers Andre and Ibrahim, or even my father. It was never my intention to outshine them or any other family members."

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"I believe it's not the right mindset to adopt. Instead, I view their achievements as a blessing and consider myself fortunate to be a part of such a wonderful family. The pressure will inevitably persist, but it is self-imposed."

His interest in sports goes no further than Formula One, and he had limited career options until he chose his path at the age of 14 after a life-changing family trip to Marseille.

During this trip in 2006, his godfather and club president Pape Diouf encouraged him to start playing soccer while his brother Andre was attending a trial. Ayew never turned back. He joined Marseille and remained in France until the age of 23.

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While working alongside Herve Renard at Sochaux, Ayew reflects on the immense undertaking. "Leaving my family and friends behind, with the opportunity to return only once a year, proved to be a significant challenge," Ayew recalls. However, it was undoubtedly the finest decision I have ever made."

When reflecting on my accomplishments in the sport and where I find myself today, I am filled with gratitude towards God and feel fortunate. As a young person, my dream was to become a professional football player, and at the age of 31, I have achieved that dream. I hope to continue playing for many more years to come.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of playing under the guidance of World Cup winners Didier Deschamps and Patrick Vieira. However, it was during my loan spell with Sochaux that I truly flourished under the mentorship of Herve Renard. I attribute him as the most influential force in shaping and advancing my game.

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Ayew viewed Renard as a paternal mentor during his time at Sochaux.

"I've had the privilege of working with several exceptional coaches, but Herve held a special place as a fatherly figure in my life. He believed in me from a young age and taught me the fundamental principles of the game. He pushed me relentlessly and was tough on me. Although it was difficult at times as a youth, in hindsight, I appreciate that it was ultimately for my benefit."

Roy Hodgson, the current oldest manager in the Premier League, showcased his determination and passion for the sport during Saturday's 1-0 win against Sheffield United. Despite his age, the 76-year-old continues to break records and prove his worth.

The comical altercation on the sidelines with Max Lowe, who is fifty years younger than the Palace boss, has been the subject of discussion at the training ground. Ayew views it as a positive occurrence.

"We have joked about it in the locker room, and I don't see any issue with it. It demonstrates that he is not a reserved individual and that he still possesses the enthusiasm and determination to succeed, which is a favorable trait."

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Black Stars and a family affair

Ayew is accustomed to the tough competition, having endured 90 fouls last season - the highest count among any player in the Premier League. This statistic perplexes him, although he is not surprised by the significant distance he covers for his team.

Despite the replacement of Vieira with Hodgson, Palace managed to secure an 11th-place finish last season, with Ayew playing a part in all 38 matches, 31 of which he started.

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His value to his teammates goes beyond his goal scoring and assisting abilities, as he has been voted Players' Player of the Year at both Palace and Swansea. He is considered one of the most underrated footballers in the league.

In SE25, this summer has brought about significant changes. Wilfried Zaha, the club's talisman, has brought his long-standing association with the team to an end as he made a move to Galatasaray. Meanwhile, Chelsea's activation of Michael Olise's £35m release clause resulted in his prompt commitment to another four years with the club. Amidst these developments, Cheick Doucoure has been associated with a potential move to Liverpool following an impressive debut season. Additionally, Eberechi Eze's decision to renew his contract remains uncertain at this time.

Paddy McCarthy has been promoted to assistant manager and the highly rated Irishman will certainly pick up a few useful tips from Hodgson's trusted lieutenant, Ray Lewington.

Ayew is confident in the bright future that lies ahead under Hodgson, with momentum gaining after the victorious start at Bramall Lane.

"We cannot underestimate the importance of retaining them," he emphasizes when questioned about the prospects of Olise and Eze. "Our club should strive to attract high-caliber players. We consistently aim to have exceptional players, fostering healthy competition within the team."

The club will ultimately determine the outcome, making it a topic I am unable to discuss. However, this development can only be seen as a positive indication of the players' progress. In November 2011, both Jordan and Andre had their inaugural Champions League appearance against Arsenal while playing for Marseille. With Mikel Arteta's team being the first to visit Selhurst Park on Monday night, Hodgson will be seeking a consecutive victory with all the favorable circumstances falling into place.

Not that Ayew is setting any season targets.

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"We have high aspirations, yet remain grounded and focused. Rather than getting caught up in the future, we understand the importance of maintaining consistency in our performances.

Our main priority is facing Arsenal, which is anticipated to be a challenging match. Although the outcome is uncertain, we eagerly await the opportunity to return to Selhurst Park. The presence of my loved ones will make it an exhilarating evening."

My family will be watching the Crystal Palace vs Arsenal match on Monday Night Football. Hopefully, we can bring joy to their faces as they tune in to the live broadcast on We Main Event and Premier League. The coverage starts at 6.30pm, with kick-off at 8pm.

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