Tapha happy to stay at new home even if Gambia come back knocking for much-fancied role

New Liberia U20 gaffer Tapha Manneh

Ebrima KB Sonko

Tapha Manneh, the former coach of the Gambia U-20 who was recently appointed as the coach of the Liberian U-20, says he will not work away from his new role as gaffer of the Liberia Youth team even if the Gambia Football Federation gives him the vacant U-20 managerial post.

"It's too late now, I really want to serve my people but unfortunately, the Liberia job came first. “The relationship I built here in Liberia I can't betrayed them like that." Tapha Manneh revealed to Gambia Sports.

During Tapha Manneh's unveiling, the Secretary-General of the Liberian FA, Isaac Montgomery said that Tapha's mandate will be to qualify Liberia to the U-20 Afcon and World Cup finals to be hosted by Egypt and Indonesia, respectively.

"His first mandate will be to take Liberia to the next under -20 Africa Cup of Nations (afcon) finals and the under- 20 World Cup finals," Montgomery, was quoted as saying by Liberia Football Association Facebook page.

In an interview with Gambia Sports, Tapha Manneh highlighted that his job is not only limited to qualifying the Liberian U-20 to major tournaments but to produce players for Liberian Senior team.

 "My TOR is to Manage and prepare players for senior national team, also qualify U20 to major tournament like cup of nation and world cup." The former Liscr coach said.

Lamin Kaba Bajo, the president of the Gambia football federation joined many Gambians in congratulating their compatriot, Tapha Manneh for his post as the new Liberia U-20 Coach.

“This is indeed a great news for Gambian football. On my behalf, and that of the Gambian football family, I wish to congratulate Manneh on the deserved achievement and at the same time challenge the up-and-coming coaches that hard work does indeed pays off; thus, they should all emulate him,” Lamin Kaba Bajo said.