Quaye’s comment comes after Hearts of Oak board member, Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe accused players of engaging in smoking and drinking before and after matches.

The former Black Stars player explained that the practice is a norm all over the world but only demonized only in Ghana.

“Drinking and smoking are everywhere in the world of football. In Germany, Spain, England, and other countries, players take cups of beer to regain lost energy after a game, others smoke as a sign of enjoyment after a match win,” the former Hearts defender said on Agyenkwa FM.

The former Great Olympics player said it was normal for him to take a bottle of alcohol after their victories over rivals Asante Kotoko. He asked Ghanaians to stop treating drinking and smoking as heinous crimes for players.

“It's only in our country that when a player is seen drinking then it's a taboo and for that matter become a big news in the public.

“In my playing days, I used to drink a bottle of Guinness. When we win a game, it's just a moment to feel happy.

“Even when we beat Kotoko to win the super cup, I drank one bottle of Guinness after the game”.