Accra (Ghana), April 15 (IANS): Ghana's Sports Minister Mustapha Ahmed has paid glowing tributes to former 'Black Stars' Skipper Stephen Appiah for his contribution to the development of football in the African country.

Speaking at the launch of a testimonial match in honour of the Ghanaian international on Tuesday, Ahmed described Appiah as a legend whose exploits as a footballer from club to the national team had been an inspiration to the entire Ghanaian youth and beyond, reports Xinhua.

He said Appiah, popularly known as 'Tornado', deserved to be celebrated because he was not just a footballer with great skills on the pitch but a leader as well, who was an inspiration to his team.

Appiah captained the Black Stars to their first ever FIFA World Cup in 2006 and also led the team to their second consecutive World Cup in 2010 and several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

"His inspirational role in Ghana's first ever qualification to the FIFA World Cup in Germany in 2006 remains fresh in our minds and we shall always remember him for his efforts," said Ahmed, calling for support for the initiative.

Appiah said he had invited officials and some players of his former clubs in Europe and most of them were excited about the idea and ready to come down and take part in the testimonial game which will take place at the Accra Sports Stadium on June 27.

Appiah capped 67 times for the Black Stars in which he managed to score 14 goals.