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Grant takes back-seat for Yom Kippur friendly

October 20, 2016 14:44

By

Simon Griver,

Simon Griver

1 min read

Ghana manager Avram Grant literally sat out Ghana's 1-1 draw in a friendly against South Africa on Yom Kippur.

Grant, who walked to and from the stadium and was fasting, sat in the dugout and allowed his assistant-coach to manage the game.

The Israeli's seemingly strange behaviour was initially interpreted as a protest at the fierce criticism of him after Ghana's disappointing 0-0 home draw in the opening game of the World Cup 2018 qualifiers last month.

Ghana FA spokesman Ibrahim Sanni Daara explained: "Avram spoke to the players before the game and explained the importance of Yom Kippur and that he would be taking no active part in the match."