#GPLwk18: Vinicius not available for Kotoko, needs three weeks to get fit – Barreto

Asante Kotoko coach, Mariano Barreto says new signing Michael Vinicius lacks the fitness to be immediately thrown into competitive matches.

The Brazilian striker officially began training with his new teammates this week after signing for the Porcupine Warriors days to the end of the second transfer window of the 2020/21 season.

Vinicius is said to have not played football since November.

And the new coach – in a pre-match presser for his first official game – an away fixture at Eleven wonders to kickstart the second round of the 2020/21 Ghana Premier League this Saturday – admitted the 27-year-old needs time to get in shape,

“…Our striker the Brazilian, Michael is not fit.

“He will need to take up to three weeks to get fit because. It is a long time that he has not played.

“He needs to work hard to be able to join us as soon as possible,” Barreto stated in the virtual presser.

Asante Kotoko are also hoping new signing Solomon Sarfo Taylor will be able to pass a late fitness test after picking up a knock during Wednesday’s training session.

When they first met on the opening day of the season, Eleven Wonders snatched a 1-1 draw at Kotoko’s adopted home – the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Porcupine Warriors are currently fourth in the 2020/21 Ghana Premier League (GPL) standings, having played a game less.