Uncovering Jordan Ayew: Insights into His Accra Roots, the Phenomenal Roy Hodgson, and His Quest to Foster Michael Olise's Success

"Usually, I opt for soft ground," remarks Jordan Ayew, as he gazes up at the line-up of studs in a compact boot room on a scorching day in New Beckenham, the verdant district of South London.

Considering the recent surge of grave knee injuries plaguing professional football, it doesn't appear entirely nonsensical to inquire about the boot preference of Crystal Palace's forward as an initial conversational point.

Using hard ground is a challenge for me. I'd rather slip just once or twice!

Copers Cope is bustling with activity as Ayew takes a break from a busy round of interviews to select his weapon of choice for the upcoming match against Arsenal on Monday Night Football, to be aired live on We.

Crystal Palace

Arsenal

Monday 21st August 6:30pm

Kick off 8:00pm

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The Ayew brothers in action for Ghana

After recharging over the summer in Turkey, the 31-year-old is prepared to embark on another journey around the sun.

Ayew, a family-oriented individual, has been influenced by a strong sense of community during his upbringing on the streets of Accra. The mention of his hometown brings forth a beaming smile, as expansive as the Volta River, from Ayew, from the roaming chickens of Labadi Beach to the soaring Eagles above.

Accra, boasting a population of 300,000 residents, thrives on a deep love for football. During my gap year in 2007, I found myself entrusted with the challenging duty of assembling a team of spirited 11-year-olds to compete in tournaments against opponents who were at least two years older than them. From my own firsthand encounter, this city is indeed founded on perseverance.

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Andre Ayew with Jordan on the final day of last season

Ghana celebrated its 50th anniversary as the pioneer country in Sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence from its colonial rulers. During this time, schoolchildren sporting Michael Essien and Stephen Appiah shirts would ride bicycles and navigate through tuk-tuks. Just a year later, the city prepared to host the Africa Cup of Nations in 2008, with preparations already underway.

"The traffic is always heavy," my taxi driver would frequently remark, as I eagerly made my way through the bustling rush hour traffic to find a television screen to catch Essien's Chelsea in action during those peak Jose Mourinho years. Every Wednesday, in the area where my residence was located, a water shortage would occur, necessitating a 2km walk to the closest reliable vendor.

For Ayew, the blaring car horns and the sight of hard work and perspiration are all too familiar. Despite his father's fame, his humble beginnings have led him to accumulate 240 appearances in the Premier League and participate in two World Cup finals with the Black Stars.

"I was raised by my grandparents," he shares with us. "Accra holds a special place in my heart. It is my home and it has taught me invaluable life lessons, such as the importance of discipline and humility.

"I received guidance not only from my family, but also from individuals in the community. They would kindly point out when I veered off the right path. The mindset here is distinct from that of 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 was deemed by some as inherently meant to excel in soccer, being the third child of Abedi Pele, a three-time African Footballer of the Year.

"I never desired to find myself in the trap of being in constant competition with my brothers Andre and Ibrahim, or even with my father," he refutes. "It never occurred to me that I had to surpass my family members in any way."

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Ayew, during his time at Marseille alongside Didier Deschamps, expressed his belief that adopting a different mindset would be more beneficial. Instead of viewing their accomplishments as a negative aspect, Ayew sees them as a source of inspiration and feels privileged to be part of such a supportive environment. He acknowledges that pressure will always exist, but he embraces it and places high expectations on himself.

He was solely interested in Formula One beyond the sport, and his career options were limited until he set his sights on it at the age of 14 after a life-changing family vacation in Marseille.

During this trip in 2006, his godfather and club president Pape Diouf encouraged him to put on his boots while his brother Andre was being evaluated for a trial. Ayew never turned back. He joined Marseille and remained in France until the age of 23.

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During his tenure with Herve Renard at Sochaux, Ayew reflects on his experience, stating that it proved to be a monumental challenge. He admits to only returning home once a year, resulting in leaving his loved ones and friends behind. However, Ayew firmly believes that it was the finest decision he made in his life.

I am truly grateful to God and feel incredibly blessed when I reflect on my achievements in the game and where I am today. As a young person, my dream was to become a professional football player, and now at the age of 31, I have successfully realized that dream. I hope to continue playing for many more years to come.

During his football career, Ayew has had the privilege of playing under the guidance of World Cup winners Didier Deschamps and Patrick Vieira. However, it was under Herve Renard's leadership during his loan spell with Sochaux that Ayew truly flourished, and he attributes Renard as the person who has had the greatest impact in shaping and improving his game.

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

"I've had the opportunity to work with several exceptional coaches, but Herve was truly like a father to me. He took me under his wing when I was young and taught me the fundamental aspects of the game. He constantly pushed me to improve, even if it meant being tough on me. In the moment, it wasn't always easy, but looking back, I realize it was for my own benefit."

"He provided me with guidance on areas for improvement, for which I am immensely grateful to Didier Deschamps as he afforded me my initial opportunity in the professional realm at Marseille. It is these individuals who have contributed significantly to my accomplishments."

Roy Hodgson's status as the Premier League's oldest manager persists, and his passion remains evident, as demonstrated by Saturday's 1-0 triumph against Sheffield United.

The comical scuffle on the touchline between Max Lowe and the Palace boss, who is half a century older, has become the topic of conversation at the training ground this week. Ayew views it as a positive occurrence.

"We've shared a laugh about it in the dressing room, and I don't see any issue with it. It demonstrates that he is not a reserved individual and that age does not hinder his energy and determination to win, which is a good thing."

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Black Stars and a family affair

Ayew, who experienced 90 fouls last season, the highest number among any player in the Premier League, is accustomed to the intense competition. Although the significant distance he consistently covers for his team does not surprise him, the fouls statistic perplexes him.

Despite the return of Hodgson instead of Vieira, Crystal Palace managed to secure an 11th place finish last season. Ayew played a crucial role in this achievement, featuring in all 38 matches, with 31 appearances as a starter.

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Recognized as the Players' Player of the Year at both Palace and Swansea, his value to his fellow teammates extends beyond his goal-scoring and assist contributions, establishing him as one of the league's most underestimated footballers.

SE25 has experienced a summer marked by transformations. Wilfried Zaha, the club's talisman, bid farewell and joined Galatasaray, concluding his lengthy relationship with the team. In a noteworthy move, Chelsea triggered Michael Olise's £35m release clause, prompting the player to swiftly extend his commitment for another four years.

Liverpool has shown interest in Cheick Doucoure following his exceptional debut season. Meanwhile, Eberechi Eze is still deliberating on a new agreement.

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 has faith in Hodgson's leadership and sees promising progress following their victory at Bramall Lane on the opening day.

When questioned about Olise and Eze, Ayew emphasizes the significance of retaining them. "It's crucial to keep them," he asserts. "We aspire for the club to recruit top-tier players. A constant presence of high-caliber players ensures healthy competition within the team."

The club will have the final say, so I can't discuss it in detail. However, it is likely a good sign as it indicates that the players are performing well. In November 2011, Jordan and Andre made their debut in a Champions League match against Arsenal for Marseille. With Mikel Arteta's team being the first to play at Selhurst Park on Monday, under the floodlights, Hodgson will aim for a second consecutive victory.

Not that Ayew is setting any season targets.

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"We maintain an ambitious mindset, yet remain grounded. We choose to stay focused on the present, acknowledging the importance of maintaining consistent performances.

Our primary focus lies on the upcoming challenging match against Arsenal. While unable to foresee the outcome, we eagerly anticipate returning to Selhurst Park. The presence of my beloved family and friends adds to the excitement, making it a truly remarkable evening."

I hope that by watching the Crystal Palace vs Arsenal match on Monday Night Football, we can bring smiles to the faces of my family back at home. Don't miss the live broadcast on We Main Event and Premier League, starting from 6.30pm with the kick-off at 8pm.

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