Referee chief Alex Kotey apologises to George Afriyie over bribery claim

Retired referee Alex Kotey has apologised to former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Vice President George Afriyie after the latter threatened legal action over bribery allegations made against him.Speaking on Top FM, Kotey retracted his claims, stating that he had no intention of tarnishing Afriyies reputation.I have called George Afriyie to ask for his forgiveness. He is my close friend in football, and I didnt mean to damage his image. I have sought his forgiveness so we can continue our friendship. I have retracted my statement, Kotey said.Afriyie, who previously served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Swedru All Blacks, had vowed to take legal action after Kotey alleged that he attempted to bribe him to influence officiating in favour of the club.During an interview with Top FM, Kotey claimed Afriyie visited his house alongside a mutual friend and attempted to offer him money.George Afriyie came to my house and offered me a bribe during his time with All Blacks. I wasnt aware of his visit until my friend, who accompanied him, informed me. I felt uncomfortable and initially refused to meet him. But after my friend convinced me, I agreed to speak with him. He wanted to give me money, but I told him I dont engage in such things and advised him to give the money to his players instead, Kotey alleged.Responding to the accusation, Afriyie denied any wrongdoing and directed his lawyers to take legal action.Im not 100% righteous, but during my time at All Blacks, Alex Kotey never officiated any of our three matches against Kotoko. I have instructed my lawyers to take him on, Afriyie told Kessben FM.Afriyie played a key role in All Blacks promotion to the Ghana Premier League in 2005 before leaving the club in 2008.